A 2021 study published in the journal Nature showed that online search queries relating to erectile dysfunction (ED) increase during the winter. Several possible reasons have been put forward to explain this phenomenon. Here’s a look at what these are, and also at the most effective treatments for ED.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Many people experience a downturn in their mental health during the winter, known colloquially as the ‘winter blues.’ However, it’s not just in your head, but a medically recognised condition called seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
This is a form of depression triggered by a change in the season, and although it can occur in the summer, it’s far more common in winter. The causes are not fully understood, but it may be linked to changes in exposure to daylight.
The symptoms align with other forms of depression, including a lack of energy, low mood, an inability to enjoy hobbies and interests, and loss of libido. There is an established link between depression and ED, so this may cause a spike in searches for advice and treatments, such as Cialis, which can be bought cheaply online as tadalafil.
Lower levels of sunlight and vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that can’t be manufactured by the body independently; it is gained from sunlight exposure and in small amounts from certain foods such as oily fish, red meat, and egg yolks. During the summer months, most people who spend an average amount of time outdoors should be able to obtain all the vitamin D they need.
During the autumn and winter months, the sun in the UK is not strong enough to trigger vitamin D production so this can result in a deficiency. Symptoms can include muscle pain, bone pain, tremors and spasms. It may also cause reduced testosterone levels, the male hormone responsible for sex drive and sexual function.
This may be another explanation for why more men seek ED treatment in the winter.
Lifestyle changes
The colder weather and shorter days can mean that many people become less physically active, as outdoor activities are reduced. The drop in exercise levels can make the underlying health conditions that often cause ED to become more pronounced, such as cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
It may also lead to an increase in appetite and cravings for stodgy foods, and this can contribute to weight gain. The temptations of the festive season make indulging in richer and fattier foods easier than at other times of the year. Obesity is a known risk factor for ED, as well as the related health conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol.
Many people gain weight during the colder months, and this may explain the surge in online searches for help and advice for ED. Furthermore, there is also a temptation to drink more alcohol as social events become more frequent during the holiday season, and there is a general sense of festive spirit in the air.
There is a known link between excessive alcohol consumption and ED, which may be a further explanation why it is more common in autumn and winter.
Stress
Many people find winter the most stressful time of the year. The pressures of Christmas or other winter festivities can lead to worries about finances, attending social events or family gatherings, buying presents, hosting guests, and more. Stress is a key contributory factor to ED, because it can interfere with sexual arousal.
Relationship tensions
Colder weather and festive breaks mean that couples can spend more time together, often when life is at its most stressful. This can lead to increased relationship conflicts, or magnify any issues that are bubbling under the surface, including those related to sexual performance.
Cold weather
The colder temperatures can affect circulation, because the blood vessels tend to constrict in an effort to keep the vital organs warm. This can make it more difficult for the blood to flow to the penile tissues, thus increasing the likelihood of ED.
So, to sum up: if you think that you may be affected by any of these issues, it’s important to overcome any discomfort and get them checked out by a medical professional. They will be able to assess for any serious underlying causes, and guide you towards the most appropriate treatment to get your sexual function back on track.
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