Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance naturally found in all of our bodies that helps with digestion, hormone production, and the creation of Vitamin D. However, when your cholesterol levels rise, often as the result of an unhealthy diet, so too can your chances of having a heart attack or heart disease. As cholesterol accumulates in your arteries it creates a hard plaque that builds up on the arterial walls. This is known as atherosclerosis. Because of the damage to arteries and nerves, in the penis and elsewhere, men with atherosclerosis are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction and impotence.
To ensure that your cholesterol levels are in an acceptable range, the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that adults over the age of 20 receive cholesterol checks every 5 years. This is important given the lack of outward symptoms. People with high cholesterol often have no idea they have a serious health issue until it is too late. In men, one of the major early signs can be erectile dysfunction. If men do not address their erectile problems with a doctor due to fear or embarrassment, they may be allowing a very serious problem to get even worse.
During most cholesterol levels checks, the doctor will check your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and your triglyceride levels.
What do these types of cholesterol represent and what do the levels mean?
Total cholesterol – This is the total level of cholesterol in your blood stream. Cholesterol is measured in milliliters (mg) per deciliter (dl) of blood. Less than 200 mg/dl is desirable, 200-239 mg/dl is borderline high and 240 mg/dl and over is considered high. According to a study performed by the University of South Carolina, men with a total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dl and above have double the chance of having erectile dysfunction.
LDL – Low density lipoprotein is also referred to as “bad” cholesterol because of its ability to build up in arteries, form plaque, and eventually, harden arteries. The formation of a clot in the artery can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Less than 100 mg/dl is optimal, 100-129 mg/dl is near optimal, 130-159 mg/dl is borderline high, 160-189 mg/dl is high and 189 mg/dl and over is very high.
HDL – High density lipoprotein is also referred to as “good” cholesterol because high levels can reduce the likelihood of a heart attack, but low levels may increase the odds of a heart attack. HDL works to clear the arteries of cholesterol and carry it back to the liver. A level of 60 mg/dl is good and less than 40 mg/dl puts you at risk of a heart attack.
Triglycerides – Triglyceride is a form of fat made in the body. Elevated triglycerides can be found in people who are overweight, physically inactive, smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol and have a diet very high in carbohydrates. People with high triglycerides often have a high total cholesterol level, including a high LDL (bad) level and a low HDL (good) level.
If you are a male with high cholesterol, it is likely that you are either currently experiencing erectile dysfunction or impotence or may likely in the future. If you haven’t already, it’s time to consult a physician to get you on a medical plan to lower your cholesterol and regain your sexual health.
