Common sleep disorder that affects almost half of men over 40 may increase risk of developing erectile dysfunction
A common sleep disorder thought to affect almost half of men over the age of 40 could increase the risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED), a study found.
The research suggests a link between sleep apnoea – a potentially serious condition which causes breathing to stop intermittently throughout the night – and impotence.
Experts say sleep apnoea, one of the main symptoms of which is heavy snoring, may raise the risk of ED because the disrupted sleep and drops in blood oxygen levels can cause restricted blood flow, hormonal imbalances and reduced nitric oxide levels – all of which interfere with erectile function.
ED affects half of UK men aged 40 to 70 to some degree, and roughly 13 per cent of adult men over 30 have sleep apnoea – though the majority of these cases remain undiagnosed. And rising obesity rates are driving an increase in both conditions.
The study, published in the International Journal of Impotence Research, looked at the health data of adults over 18 diagnosed with sleep apnoea.
It found around seven in ten with the condition also suffered ED – and as their sleep apnoea worsened, so too did their ED.
Both conditions also appear to become more common with age.
The researchers from University College London said their findings suggest giving those with ED screenings for sleep apnoea to rule out the condition.
A study has found that there is a potential link between sleep apnoea and erectile dysfunction
Crucially, the research also suggests that treating sleep apnoea could improve ED symptoms – offering hope to millions of men.
Sleep apnoea is usually treated using a continuous positive airway pressure (Cpap) machine.
This device delivers a steady stream of pressurised air through a mask to keep the airway open while a person sleeps.
The review highlighted many men using a CPAP machine saw their ED improve.
Other treatments for sleep apnoea include lifestyle changes such as losing weight or adjusting sleep positions.
The goal is to keep the airway open during sleep, restore normal oxygen levels and eliminate disruptive snoring.
