Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction, often known as impotence, is the difficulty of keeping an erection to engage in sexual activity. This negatively impacts patients’ quality of life despite the generally positive trend in life expectancy in kidney failure.
The accumulation of CKD-related physiological disturbance has a disruptive effect on the functions of various organs and tissues. This affects more in patients with end-stage renal illness who need dialysis treatment. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is severely disrupted in males with chronic kidney disease, leading to severe functional impairment and decreased quality of life. The kidneys are responsible for the breakdown and elimination of several hormones. Chronic kidney disease destabilizes susceptible feedback circuits. As a result, the concentration of circulating binding proteins might change whenever there is renal failure. Some of CKD’s endocrine complications include hyperprolactinemia and hypogonadism.When other risk factors, such as diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, or antihypertensive medication use, are present, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among patients tends to rise. Both conditions have pathophysiological origins, including vascular or hormonal abnormalities. According to studies, patients with end-stage renal illness or kidney failure have a prevalence of erectile dysfunction of almost 70 percent. Fortunately, treatment is available, and some patients can have a normal sexual life.
