With the accelerated pace of life and increasing pressure, hypertension has become a common disease that plagues modern people. To control blood pressure, many people choose to take antihypertensive drugs for a long time. However, some people may be concerned about whether long-term use of antihypertensive drugs will affect male sexual function. In this regard, doctors remind that there are indeed 3 types of antihypertensive drugs that need special attention when taking.
One, the necessity for hypertensive patients to take antihypertensive drugs for a long time
Hypertension is a chronic disease that requires long-term management. Most hypertensive patients need to take antihypertensive drugs for an extended period to control blood pressure. This is because, although lifestyle changes (such as diet and exercise) can help lower blood pressure, for most hypertensive patients, lifestyle changes alone are not enough to control blood pressure within a safe range.
Antihypertensive drugs can help reduce blood pressure, reduce the burden on the heart, brain, and kidneys, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Long-term use of antihypertensive drugs can effectively control hypertension and prevent damage to the body.
However, antihypertensive drugs cannot cure hypertension, only control the condition. Therefore, once antihypertensive drugs are started, most patients need to take them for life. Additionally, patients need to regularly monitor their blood pressure to ensure effective control.
Two, the relationship between hypertension and male sexual function
1. The impact of hypertension on male sexual function
Hypertension can cause blood vessel hardening, obstruct blood circulation, thus affecting the erectile function of the penis. In addition, hypertension may also lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting the secretion of male hormones, further affecting sexual function.
2. The impact of hypertension on the male reproductive system
Hypertension can affect the male reproductive system. Due to poor blood circulation, it may affect the generation and maturation of sperm, thus affecting fertility.
Hypertension may also lead to prostate diseases, such as prostate hyperplasia and prostatitis, which can affect male reproductive health.
3. The impact of hypertension on male psychological health
Due to sexual function disorders and reproductive health issues, it may cause psychological pressure in men, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. Hypertension itself is a chronic disease that requires long-term medication and lifestyle adjustments, which may also affect the psychological health of men.
Three, characteristics of three types of antihypertensive drugs and their impact on male sexual function
1. Diuretics
Mechanism of action of diuretics: Diuretics reduce blood pressure by increasing urine excretion, decreasing the fluid volume in the blood, thereby lowering blood pressure. They mainly work in the kidneys, blocking the reabsorption of sodium ions and water, allowing them to be excreted in the urine.
Impact of diuretics on male sexual function: Diuretics may affect male sexual function. Some studies suggest that long-term use of certain diuretics may cause erectile dysfunction, possibly due to the lowering of zinc content in the blood by these drugs, and zinc is an important element for maintaining normal sexual function. In addition, diuretics may also lead to side effects such as breast enlargement in male patients.
2. β-Blockers
Mechanism of action of β-blockers: β-blockers lower blood pressure by blocking β-adrenergic receptors in the heart and blood vessels, reducing heart rate, and myocardial contractility.
Impact of β-blockers on male sexual function: β-blockers may affect male sexual function. Some studies suggest that male patients using β-blockers may experience reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and other issues. This may be because these drugs can slow down blood flow to the penis, affecting erection.
3. ACE Inhibitors
Mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors: ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing the generation of angiotensin II, thereby dilating blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.
Impact of ACE inhibitors on male sexual function: Compared to the other two classes of drugs, ACE inhibitors have a smaller impact on male sexual function. Some studies suggest that ACE inhibitors not only do not cause sexual dysfunction, but may help improve erectile function. This may be because ACE inhibitors can improve blood flow to the penis, thus aiding in erection.
Four, how to protect male sexual function while taking antihypertensive drugs
1. Select antihypertensive drugs rationally
Various antihypertensive drugs have different effects on male sexual function. For example, diuretics and β-blockers may have a negative impact on sexual function, while calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors are less likely to affect sexual function. Therefore, if you are using antihypertensive drugs that may affect sexual function, you can discuss with your doctor if there are other alternative drugs.
2. Adjust lifestyle
Having a healthy lifestyle is crucial for maintaining sexual function. This includes balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking, and getting adequate sleep. These can help improve blood pressure control and also aid in maintaining sexual function.
3. Psychological counseling and therapy
Antihypertensive drugs may cause sexual dysfunction, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Psychological counseling and therapy can help address these issues and improve the quality of sexual life.
Five, summary
Overall, the impact of antihypertensive drugs on male sexual function varies from person to person and depends on the type of drug, dosage, and individual differences. If you experience a decrease in sexual function after taking antihypertensive drugs, be sure to communicate with your doctor promptly to adjust the medication or explore other treatment options.
At the same time, we must also realize that the best way to control blood pressure is through a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and a positive mindset. Only in this way can we truly achieve physical and mental health and stay away from the troubles of hypertension.
