Erectile dysfunction in patients with kidney disease may arise due to hormonal imbalances and cardiovascular alterations.
Kidney failure may be associated with erectile dysfunction, affecting the quality of life of some patients.
Sexual health in patients with kidney disease is rarely discussed, but it deserves more attention since this connection is often overlooked, delaying diagnosis and making treatment more challenging.
Understand why does kidney failure cause erectile dysfunction, whether this unwanted effect can be addressed, and which options specialists consider for managing its impact on sexual health.
How does kidney damage affect male erectile function?
Kidney damage can affect erectile function in several ways, and this is more common than it seems.
A study published in the Scientific Reports journal in 2024, conducted with 72 men with chronic kidney disease, showed that 56.9% had erectile dysfunction. The worse the kidney function, the higher the likelihood of sexual dysfunction.
Kidney failure can cause hormonal imbalances. Reduced testosterone levels, for example, impair the erectile capacity of penile tissue.
Additionally, patients with kidney failure often have impaired blood circulation and nerve function, which may make it more difficult to obtain or maintain an erection.
The presence of associated conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can also contribute to erectile dysfunction.
What is kidney failure?
Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys can no longer adequately filter waste and excess fluid from the blood.
Because the kidneys regulate mineral balance, blood pressure, and essential hormone production, the condition affects overall health in multiple ways.
It may be acute—developing rapidly—or chronic, progressing slowly over years and leading to complications of chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of kidney failure vary depending on severity. In early stages, it can be asymptomatic. As it progresses, the following may appear:
- Fatigue and weakness;
- Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet (due to fluid retention);
- Shortness of breath;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Changes in urination;
- Loss of appetite;
- Persistent itching;
- Chest pain (indicating fluid around the heart).
Can kidney failure cause diabetes?
Although kidney failure causes many health issues, diabetes is not one of them. In fact, diabetes is one of the main causes of chronic kidney failure—known as diabetic nephropathy.
In the kidneys, diabetes can damage blood vessels, impairing organ function. Once kidney failure develops, metabolic and hormonal changes may further worsen diabetes.
Can people with kidney failure take Viagra?
The use of Sildenafil may be considered in some cases, always with medical supervision, since its response varies depending on clinical profile.
In men with kidney failure, extra caution is needed, as although the medication is effective for many ED cases, it is metabolized by the body.
For treating ED in patients with kidney failure, dosage adjustments may be required to avoid excessive systemic load.
How is kidney failure diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires laboratory and imaging exams, along with a specialist’s assessment. Key evaluations include:
- Blood tests measuring creatinine and urea to assess kidney filtration;
- Urine tests detecting albumin or substances indicating renal damage;
- Ultrasound or CT scan to evaluate kidney structure;
- Kidney biopsy when previous tests suggest tissue damage.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction
If erectile dysfunction is related to kidney failure, treatment should be coordinated between the nephrologist and a urologist who will assess the case individually.
Possible approaches include:
- Oral medications such as Sildenafil and Tadalafil;
- Testosterone replacement therapy;
- Intracavernosal injections applied directly into the penis;
- Psychotherapy to address emotional or psychological factors;
- Adopting a healthier lifestyle with diet, exercise, reduced alcohol consumption, and smoking cessation;
- Surgery for penile prosthesis implantation in selected cases.
Talk to Dr. Paulo Egydio and understand the best ED treatment for your case
Kidney failure may affect circulation, hormones, and overall systemic balance, often impacting sexual health as well.
To address changes in erection, seek andrologist and urologist Dr. Paulo Egydio, who has assisted men for over 25 years with personalized, humanized, and empathetic care.
Book your consultation and begin a health evaluation that helps protect your sexual well-being.
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