How does a cold lead to erectile dysfunction?

Impotence usually refers to erectile dysfunction. Generally, erectile dysfunction following a cold may be caused by physical fatigue, drug side effects, adrenal hormone secretion disorders, prostatitis, or varicocele. If physical discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Physical Fatigue: During a cold, the body consumes significant energy to fight the virus, causing fatigue and weakness. This state of fatigue can affect the normal functioning of multiple body systems, including the reproductive system, leading to erectile dysfunction. Patients are advised to ensure adequate sleep and rest during and after a cold, avoiding excessive fatigue.

2. Drug Side Effects: Medications used to treat colds, such as antihistamines, cough suppressants, antipyretics, and analgesics, may interfere with the normal functioning of the nervous system, causing erectile dysfunction. Some medications may also lower the body's androgen levels, further affecting erectile function. If symptoms persist, patients may switch to alternative medications with less impact on erectile function under a doctor's guidance.

3. Adrenal Hormone Secretion Disorders: During a cold, the body's immune system becomes active, which may lead to adrenal hormone secretion disorders, thereby affecting erectile function. It is recommended to enhance immunity and avoid recurrent colds to help reduce the occurrence of adrenal hormone secretion disorders.

4. Prostatitis: During a cold, the body's immunity decreases, allowing bacteria to ascend and infect the prostate, causing prostatitis. Prostatitis can lead to localized congestion and swelling of the prostate, which may result in erectile dysfunction. Under medical guidance, antibiotics such as Cefradine Capsules, Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets, and Sanjin Tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Varicocele: After a cold, the body's immunity may decrease, causing blood stasis within the spermatic veins, leading to varicocele, which may cause symptoms of erectile dysfunction. If symptoms are severe, treatment via microscopic varicocelectomy at a reputable hospital may be considered.

In daily life, patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, manage body weight, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and take medications as prescribed. Additionally, maintaining good dietary habits by consuming more fresh vegetables and fruits, such as apples, tomatoes, and cucumbers, may help prevent disease occurrence.