By now, we all know that cigarette smoking is harmful to our health. Even the effects of secondhand smoke can cause health issues if you’re constantly exposed to it. Breathing in smoke from someone else’s cigarette can actually be worse than smoking one yourself. All the more reason to quit smoking if you live with someone or have kids that could be affected. And a good reason to ask your loved ones to give up smoking, too.
But quitting cold turkey is almost impossible. So, what options do you have when it comes to quitting? Recently, more people have turned to e-cigarettes and vape pens to help kick the habit. Maybe that’s a path that could work for you, but you’re worried about certain side effects you’ve read about–specifically erectile dysfunction. Let’s talk about e-cigarettes and their potential impact on your sexual life.
The Link Between E-Cigarettes And Erectile Dysfunction
While switching to e-cigs or vape pens might help you quit smoking in the long run, these alternatives can still have uncomfortable–and dangerous–impacts on your health. A 2022 study found that men who vaped were more than two times as likely to develop ED.
Erectile dysfunction is linked to most cigarette and e-cigarette use. A study conducted in 2021 shows that the tobacco, nicotine, and other chemicals in vape pens and e-cigarettes can cause a lot of stress on your urinary tract system. In men, this means a direct effect on your bladder, kidneys, and penis. Not only can ED be a problem for you if you’re vaping, but you might also struggle with reproductive issues since smoking can lead to low-quality sperm.
Are You More Likely To Have ED If You’re An E-Cigarette User?
Since the ingredients in e-cigarettes and a lot of vape pens are the same, you’ll deal with the same side effects from any smoking or vaping you do. Whether you smoke traditional cigarettes or e-cigarettes, you’ll be putting yourself at a much higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction.
Why Do E-Cigarettes Cause ED?
Tobacco and nicotine use can affect your blood flow by damaging the cells that line your blood vessels. These cells–known as endothelial cells–suffer damage from the chemicals when you smoke or vape. The chemicals in e-cigarettes aren’t as potent as regular cigarettes, but they can still cause trouble. Any kind of smoking means a lower oxygen supply, and your body will have to work harder to get by.
Your nitric oxide levels will suffer when you smoke. How does this connect to ED? Well, your body needs plenty of oxygen and nitric oxide for you to get–and maintain–an erection. If your blood flow isn’t as good as it should be because of nicotine and other chemicals in e-cigarettes, your struggle with erectile dysfunction will continue.
For those marijuana vapers, the same things apply. Plus, prolonged use of marijuana can actually make some people more anxious, which can lead to additional sexual problems like performance anxiety.
Can You Reverse ED If You Quit Smoking And Vaping?
The good news is that your ED can get better if you stop smoking. The younger you are when you quit smoking or vaping, the better the chance your body will be able to function normally without any medication.
Non-Surgical Male Enhancement
If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction due to performance anxiety, we can help. The P Clinic offers male enhancement injections that can help you see an increase in penile girth and a more positive and confident body image. Book an appointment online or call us at (281) 787-0333 to schedule your consultation today.