Do Kidney Problems Cause Impotence: How to Treat and Prevent

In renal dysfunction, the body retains harmful substances. Some of the consequences include circulation issues and a reduction in hormones like testosterone. This is why, in some cases, kidney problems cause impotence. Understand why kidney health is related to erectile function.

Kidney problems can contribute to erectile dysfunction, as they are often associated with cardiovascular diseases that can affect blood circulation, impairing the ability of the penis to maintain an erection.

Basically, when the kidneys do not function properly, the body fails to expel toxins. As a result, they clog veins and hinder blood flow throughout the body.

Another aspect is the influence of the kidneys on the hormonal system. For example, regarding testosterone, the organ plays an indirect role in its production. Therefore, men with kidney problems may experience impotence.

How do kidney problems cause impotence?

The kidneys are involved in testosterone production. The adrenal glands produce a small amount. So, if there is dysfunction in these glands, the levels of the male hormone decrease. Consequently, male libido is also affected.

Signs of adrenal gland problems include muscle weakness, abdominal weight gain, high blood pressure, purple stretch marks, and increased body and facial hair.

Which kidney diseases can cause erectile dysfunction?

A number of kidney problems can trigger erectile dysfunction. Learn about the main ones:

1. Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease is a condition that has been present for three months or more, accompanied by changes in blood or urine.

There are five stages of severity, measured by urine tests and specific kidney exams. These stages measure the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), which is the kidney’s capacity. The risk groups for kidney disease are:

Risk groups include:

Hypertensive individuals
Diabetics
Elderly individuals
People with cardiovascular disease
Family history of chronic kidney disease

According to the Ministry of Health, chronic kidney disease treatment depends on the stage of the disease.

In the early stages, conservative treatment is applied to control cardiovascular complications and mortality. In the most advanced stage, Renal Replacement Therapy, which may involve dialysis or transplantation, is used.

During dialysis, the patient is connected to a machine for 3 to 4 hours, and the blood is filtered. A minimum of 3 sessions per week is required, with common side effects including headaches, cramps, and low blood pressure.

In men, erectile difficulties may occur. The master’s thesis Sexual Function in Men with Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis in the State of Amapá, for example, reports cases of mild to moderate erectile dysfunction.

CKD can also affect male reproductive function.

The academic work Effects of Chronic Kidney Disease on the Male Genital System: A Literature Review, by Mariana Pinheiro Ramalho, explains that male fertility may be affected by kidney issues.

This research highlights that chronic kidney disease damages the testes, glands that produce sperm. The study also points out that ejaculatory volume and sperm quality decrease.

2. Diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy is the deterioration of kidney blood vessels due to excessive sugar in the blood. This condition results from uncontrolled diabetes, meaning the person is not taking prescribed medication or managing their diet properly.

The disease manifests with increased blood pressure. Then, high levels of urea and creatinine appear in the urine. Swelling in the lower limbs is a warning sign of excess substances. Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing are also associated with excessive urea and creatinine in the urine.

However, diabetic nephropathy is often silent. Swelling in the legs and feet can be attributed to unrelated health issues, and the person does not seek medical help.

That is why it is so important for diabetics to have an annual check-up that includes specific urine tests for these substances.

When diagnosed, the initial treatment focuses on diabetes management. However, in advanced cases, dialysis and transplantation are alternatives.

3. Kidney failure

Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys no longer perform their functions. There are two types:

Acute kidney failure (AKI): sudden and rapid loss of kidney function
Chronic kidney failure (CKF): kidney function declines by 85 to 90% slowly, progressively, and irreversibly.

Several signs indicate kidney failure:

lack of energy;
difficulty concentrating;
loss of appetite;
difficulty sleeping;
swelling in the lower limbs;
cramps during the night;
skin irritation and dryness;
swelling around the eyes in the morning;
increased need to urinate, especially at night.

The treatment for kidney failure varies according to the severity.

In the early phase, medication and lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and physical activity are recommended. In more severe cases, dialysis and transplantation are required.

4. Hypertensive nephropathy

Hypertensive nephropathy is uncontrolled high blood pressure that damages kidney blood vessels.

Symptoms of hypertensive nephropathy include:

loss of appetite;
nausea;
vomiting;
sleepiness;
mental confusion;
weight loss;
metallic taste in the mouth.

Besides high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney problems are risk groups.

Preventing hypertensive nephropathy involves regular visits to a cardiologist. People with symptoms related to this disease undergo urine tests, electrocardiograms, and ultrasounds. The doctor may also request a kidney biopsy.

The treatment includes medication to control blood pressure, salt restriction, and physical activity. Depending on the case, dialysis may be necessary.

5. Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome is the excessive elimination of proteins through the urine. The disease can be congenital, which is rare. It can also be genetically transmitted. However, it is usually related to diseases such as hepatitis, AIDS, and lupus.

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by clinical and laboratory criteria:

Clinical criteria: foamy urine, morning swelling in the face and back, lower limb swelling in the afternoon
Laboratory criteria: excessive elimination of proteins by the kidneys, such as albumin, which ends up in the urine

The diagnosis is made through a histopathological exam. This is the study of tissues, in this case, the analysis of kidney tissue. Blood tests, platelet counts, serum creatinine, glucose tests, urine tests, anti-HIV tests, and syphilis serology are used to complete the diagnosis.

According to the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Primary Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults by the Ministry of Health, nephrotic syndrome treatment is divided into non-medication and medication treatments:

Non-medication treatment: guidance for the patient to restrict salt, lose weight (if necessary), avoid alcohol consumption and tobacco, and avoid amphetamines, decongestants, anabolic steroids, and anti-inflammatory drugs;
Medication treatment: drugs to control high blood pressure, diuretics to increase the amount of water eliminated by the kidneys, reducing swelling, and medications to strengthen the immune system.

What treatments are recommended for men with kidney problems and erectile dysfunction?

The treatment of erectile dysfunction in men with kidney problems involves both a nephrologist and a urologist, a specialist in the urinary system and the male reproductive system. Here’s what each one does:

Nephrologist: recovery of kidney function and conditions related to the organ, such as blood pressure and diabetes management;
Urologist: identifying testosterone levels and prescribing the necessary treatment accordingly.

If testosterone deficiency is identified, the doctor will evaluate the possibility of hormone replacement, depending on the patient’s case.

Penile injections, applied 5 to 20 minutes before intercourse, may be considered as one of the treatment options for erectile dysfunction, as well as the use of vacuum pumps, which can help in obtaining and maintaining an erection.

How to maintain erectile and kidney health?

Taking care of erectile health involves both physical and psychological aspects. It is essential to invest in healthy eating. Physical activity is also important, as it increases testosterone.

Not smoking and drinking in moderation also help.

Another point is hygiene. During a shower, men should retract the foreskin to expose the glans. Then, wash the area with water and mild soap. This should be done daily, as failing to clean the glans can lead to penile cancer.

Self-esteem is also important for sexual health.

Kidney health begins with drinking 2 liters of water daily. Other steps include a balanced diet, with a proper balance of protein and carbohydrates, and reducing salt intake. Exercise and avoiding overuse of anti-inflammatory drugs are also important for kidney care.

Kidney problems are associated with cardiovascular diseases. As a result, conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes arise or worsen.

In men, kidney failure can cause erectile dysfunction. The reduced blood flow means the penis doesn’t get enough blood to become erect.

Kidney diseases also decrease testosterone production, affecting libido and fertility.

To maintain kidney health, it is essential to take care of your diet, avoid smoking, drink alcohol in moderation, exercise, and have an annual check-up. These healthy habits are also crucial for sexual health.

Health tips also help. You can join the Dr. Paulo’s WhatsApp group to receive general advice about men’s health. However, it is always important to consult a doctor for personalized guidance.

Do Kidney Problems Cause Impotence? Understand the Relationship Between Erectile Function and Kidney Health

How do kidney problems cause impotence?