Heart disease symptoms: Two common conditions that could be early warning signs of deadly heart disease in men

Experts believe the reasons men have a shorter life expectancy than women are often attributed to preventable diseases, which are mostly lifestyle-related, such as heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes. A new study says two common conditions could be warning signs for these diseases.

Erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms such as nocturia, or frequent urination at night, could indicate coexisting heart problems and an increased risk of heart attacks, even in younger men, according to researchers at the University of Adelaide.

“Erectile dysfunction and nocturia are problematic conditions that damage self-esteem and reduce quality of life,” said Dr. Garry Wittert, who led the study team. “Nocturia causes sleep disturbances and erectile dysfunction has adverse effects on intimate relationships. By addressing these symptoms, health care professionals can better identify and treat underlying cardiometabolic problems early, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality among men.”

What is erectile dysfunction?

Also known as impotence, erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Although it is common among men over 40, studies indicate that it now affects one in five men in the UK, even in their 30s.

Research also says that men with erectile dysfunction are more likely to have at least one chronic health condition.

Dr. Wittert said that younger men typically avoid seeking treatment for ED because they think it will resolve spontaneously, and older men accept it as a natural part of aging. “Failure to seek or receive appropriate care represents a missed opportunity for prevention, diagnosis and remediation of chronic disease. We are encouraging primary care physicians to ask their male patients about the presence of ED and nocturia, and respond accordingly,” he said.

How does erectile dysfunction cause heart problems?

Experts say that if you suffer from erectile dysfunction, you may not realize that you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. It is often a sign of atherosclerosis (i.e. narrowing of the arteries) and can lead to a heart attack.

How to prevent and treat ED?

To prevent and treat ED, you must first identify the underlying cause, some of which include:

Nocturia is another common condition that causes one to wake up during the night to urinate. Also known as nocturnal urinary frequency, it becomes more common as people age and occurs mostly in men.

How does nocturia cause heart problems?

According to doctors, nocturia causes wakefulness during the night and impairs a person’s ability to get restful sleep.

Several studies have linked lack of sleep to an increase in heart disease, as well as other problems such as diabetes and even obesity.

Ways to prevent nocturia

Doctors say nocturia can be prevented by making some lifestyle changes, including: