Is Erectile Dysfunction an Early Sign of Prostate Cancer?

When someone first starts to experience the symptoms of erectile dysfunction, many people start to think there must be something wrong with them.

The truth is that almost half of men experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives. So, if you’re starting to show signs of ED, you’re definitely not alone.

Even still, many people start to fear that once they begin experiencing ED, it must mean there’s something physical wrong with them that’s causing the condition. While there are underlying conditions that can increase your risk factor of getting ED, fears of things like cancer often prevail over more easily managed conditions, like high blood pressure.

To help you understand whether erectile dysfunction is a sign of prostate cancer, we’ve put together some beneficial information that should help put your mind at ease. Or, if you’re looking for ED treatments, you can complete a short online assessment with one of the experts at Felix.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Unlike some cancers that have names difficult to associate with specific parts of the body, prostate cancer is simply cancer of the prostate gland.

It usually begins in the gland cells of the prostate, and only appears in those assigned male at birth.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Unfortunately, unlike some cancers, prostate cancer doesn’t usually present any symptoms, unless the cancer has spread outside the prostate gland. In some cases, it may begin to present itself as difficulty urinating.

This is why it’s important to get checked regularly after age 40 for any signs of prostate cancer. Catching the first signs of prostate cancer early is the best way to begin effective, potentially successful treatments.

Is Erectile Dysfunction a Sign of Prostate Cancer?

No, it’s not. Prostate cancer doesn’t usually present symptoms, unless the cancer has already spread outside of the prostate.

There’s no indication that there’s any direct connection between prostate cancer and erectile dysfunction, at this time.

How Does Prostate Cancer Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Prostate cancer itself does not cause erectile dysfunction, unless the cancer spreads outside of the prostate and begins to affect the nerves around it.

It’s important to note that a prostatectomy can cause ED after the prostate surgery is done. This isn’t because the prostate is related to erectile dysfunction, but rather, because the nerves that are responsible for causing erections may be damaged or removed during the surgery.

When damage occurs to these nerves, erectile dysfunction is possible. When the nerves are removed, erectile dysfunction is very likely.

The good news is that even if you’ve had prostate removal and impotence has occurred, there are treatments you can try to alleviate your erectile dysfunction symptoms and get back to enjoying your sex life.

Start by completing an assessment and talking to a healthcare practitioner at Felix. They’ll be able to offer potential ED treatments that may work for you, based on your health and needs.

With Felix in your corner, you can get back to enjoying life on your terms.