This morning symptom in men can be a silent indicator of heart blockage – Times of India

Did you know that before a serious illness develops, our bodies give us small clues about how we are doing? The lack of morning penile erections in men may be one such indication. Often called “morning wood,” this physiological reaction is more than just a sign of a healthy sexual system. Research suggests it could be a silent indicator of cardiovascular issues, including heart blockages. Understanding the connection between this morning symptom and heart health is very much important for early detection and prevention.

Why do morning erections occur in healthy men?

Nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT), often known as morning penile erections, is a typical aspect of a man’s sleep cycle, especially during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The body’s release of testosterone and the increased blood flow to the penile tissue while you sleep are the causes of this phenomena.
Absence or a sudden decline in morning erections can indicate an issue with blood flow, hormone levels, or nerve functions—all of which are essential for both sexual and heart health.

Link between erectile dysfunction and heart health

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is increasingly recognized as an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that the same factors causing blockages in coronary arteries—such as plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), high cholesterol, or poor blood vessel function—can also restrict blood flow to the penis. Since penile arteries are smaller than coronary arteries, they tend to show signs of blockage earlier.
Research published in 2016 emphasized that men with ED are more likely to experience a cardiovascular event

How absence of morning erections can indicate heart blockages

Morning erections rely on a healthy blood supply and properly functioning blood vessels. If you’re consistently waking up without a morning erection, it could mean your blood vessels are struggling to deliver adequate blood flow, potentially due to blockages.

The penile arteries are among the first to show signs of vascular issues because they are smaller in diameter. Blockages or reduced elasticity in these arteries can directly affect the ability to achieve or sustain an erection.

Testosterone, morning erections, and heart disease

The lack of morning erections may also be caused by low testosterone levels. Male sexual health depends on testosterone, a hormone that decreases with age but can also be affected by long-term conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Studies have shown that low levels of testosterone are linked to a higher risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Men with low testosterone often experience changes in body measurements and have metabolic issues that increase their risk of heart disease. While hormonal one may not cause heart issues, they often coexist with underlying vascular problems.

When should you be concerned?

While missing an occasional morning erection is not unusual, a consistent absence, especially when paired with other symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath, warrants medical attention.
Doctors may recommend tests such as an angiogram, stress test, or blood work to evaluate cardiovascular health.