Sleep Apnea and Erectile Dysfunction: What is the Link?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most emotionally crippling conditions for men worldwide. So many suffer from the condition and believe they can will their way back to normal. Others believe the situation to be too embarrassing and difficult to raise with their doctor. So I always have tremendous respect and pride for the men who visit me for help.

In my consultations, I often raise the topic of sleep, and I’m not surprised to see a lightbulb go off in some of my patients. Yes, their partner has noticed loud snoring. They’ve even mentioned choking noises and difficulty breathing during sleep. These are worrying signs of sleep apnea and are often linked to ED.

In this article, I’ll spend some time on both conditions, how they overlap, and what you can do to get both under control. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most emotionally crippling conditions for men worldwide. So many suffer from the condition and believe they can will their way back to normal. Others believe the situation to be too embarrassing and difficult to raise with their doctor.

So I always have tremendous respect and pride for the men who visit me for help. In my consultations, I often raise the topic of sleep, and I’m not surprised to see a lightbulb go off in some of my patients. Yes, their partner has noticed loud snoring.

They’ve even mentioned choking noises and difficulty breathing during sleep. These are worrying signs of sleep apnea and are often linked to ED. In this article, I’ll spend some time on both conditions, how they overlap, and what you can do to get both under control.

Erectile dysfunction is when a man is unable to achieve and/or maintain a satisfactory erection for sex. Even in healthy men, this can occur from time to time. Blood flows into the penis when sexually aroused to achieve an erection. A series of chemicals activate this process along with emotional and physiological triggers. If one or more of these levers are impacted, it will be harder to achieve an erection.

Several factors contribute to ED, including:

  • Increased age
  • Certain chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
  • Poor lifestyle decisions like excess alcohol, smoking, poor diet, and drug use.
  • Stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Nerve damage

Sleep Apnea, what’s the link?

So how does sleep apnea, particularly OSA, impact ED? Scientists are still trying to get to the bottom of the issue. For now, there’s a link between the two conditions. A few reasons come to mind:

1. Sleep apnea affects blood flow.

If you are not breathing correctly, your blood oxygen levels will be severely depleted. Blood goes into our bloodstream via our lungs. That oxygen generates energy for our cells and helps with circulation. Unfortunately, when it’s time for you to ‘get it on’ with your partner, you may lack the oxygen necessary for strong erections.

2. It impacts your testosterone levels.

Testosterone is the hormone that helps trigger the male sexual response. The majority of your body’s testosterone release happens during sleep. In a study of 10 men who went through gradual sleep deprivation from 10 hours down to 5 hours over one week, testosterone levels declined significantly after 5 hours of sleep. Doctors have so far linked decreased endocrine production, sleep apnea, and testosterone.

3. Sleep apnea is linked to stress, anxiety, and depression.

I don’t know about you, but when I lack sleep, I’m pretty cranky and not operating at my best. People with sleep apnea are more likely to suffer from stress and depression due to the frustrating lack of sleep. Chronic stress spikes cortisol, which restricts blood flow to the cavernosal spaces in the penis (the parts that fill with blood). Furthermore, the fact that you can’t have a healthy sexual relationship with your partner also weighs on you, leading to a cycle of stress, performance anxiety, and depression.

4. Frankly, you’re too tired to think about sex.

There’s a misconception that guys are always “turned on” and ready to go. While that sounds good in theory, our bodies don’t work that way. Men can be too tired for sex. Sleep apnea brings bouts of fatigue and, with it, a lack of interest in sex.

Breaking the link

If you’ve identified sleep apnea as an underlying factor, it may seem like a Catch-22. Do we treat erectile dysfunction first? Should we tackle sleep apnea, then ED? Is it wise to address both at the same time?

One thing’s for sure, ED does not cause sleep apnea, but sleep apnea can lead to severe ED. The more rest and refreshed we are, the better our blood flow, energy levels, and eventually our sexual function. Addressing the underlying causes of sleep apnea may improve ED. Luckily, there is a range of treatment options available.

Get a sleep study

Before you begin treatment, you’ll need to complete a Sleep Study (polysomnogram). Sleep studies can provide you and your healthcare provider with essential data. In the past, you would have to spend a night at a sleep center or lab connected to a breathing device, pulse oximeter, and other sensors, but now there are sleep study home kits available that are cheaper, more convenient, and more effective.

The test records your brain waves, heart rate, breathing, and blood oxygen levels. The test may also track your REM sleep and body movements. After collecting the data, a sleep doctor can advise on the best treatment options available. Treating your sleep apnea starts with making some lifestyle changes to improve your overall health and wellness.

1. Focus on weight loss

Obesity is one of the primary causes of obstructive sleep apnea. Excess fat deposits around the neck and torso may be affecting your ability to breathe at night. So a key strategy for overcoming sleep apnea is weight loss.

  • Lose some pesky pounds by boosting your metabolism. Avoid processed foods, and refined sugars, and eat a protein-rich diet. Remember to balance your macros to include healthy fats, whole grains, and leafy greens.
  • Try strength training, particularly High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). HIIT involves performing compound exercises (think squats, push-ups, boxing, or kettlebell swings) with longer rest periods. Start with 30 minutes a day for at least three days per week.
  • Be consistent. It’s easy to fall back into bad habits, especially if you do not see immediate results. Remind yourself why you’re doing it as often as possible.

According to the Sleep Foundation, losing just 10-15% of your body weight can improve OSA by up to 50%.

2. Skip the alcohol before bed

Scientists have long advocated that a glass of red wine can help stimulate melatonin release for a better night’s sleep. A couple of glasses right before bed can end up exacerbating your sleep apnea. But it’s all about volume and timing.

In general, although alcohol seems to be a great sedative, alcohol intake in the evening actually crushes sleep quality. Also, alcohol relaxes the muscles around the airways, making it more likely for you to develop apneic episodes. You’ll struggle to wake up, making the symptoms the next day more severe.

3. Quit smoking as soon as you can.

Smoking can cause inflammation in the airways and improve the chances of respiratory illnesses. Kicking your smoking habit is easier said than done, but both smoking and sleep apnea is linked to decreased lifespans. Get as much support as possible from friends, family, and doctors to build the habits you need to ditch those sticks.

4. Sleeping pills can make things worse.

It’s a common assumption to take sleep medication to help with your sleep apnea. While, in theory, it makes sense, some sleep aids can make OSA worse. Sleeping pills not only relax your muscles but make it more difficult for you to wake up.

A relaxed airway makes it more likely to collapse or become obstructed. Since you can’t wake yourself up because of the sleeping pills, you’ll have more severe side effects when you do wake up to get your day started.

Consult your family doctor or sleep practitioner to review all the prescription and non-prescription sleep aids you’re taking. If these are making your OSA worse, your doctor can come up with viable alternatives.

5. Change the way you sleep.

Sleeping on your back causes the tongue and soft tissue in your throat to obstruct your air passageways. The supine position is popular with most people with sleep apnea, and they often wake up choking or gasping for air.

Sleeping on your left side or your stomach provides optimal oxygen flow during sleep. A study of 52 patients with OSA revealed that elevating your head decreased the episodes of OSA, so invest in a wedge pillow or memory foam specific to sleep apnea.

6. Start working on self-care techniques.

Taking care of your mind and emotional well-being is just as important as improving your body. At this point, you’re dealing with the stress, fear, and anxiety of sleep apnea and ED. That would take a toll on the best of us.

If you’re more stressed, cortisol production could have an indirect effect on your sleep apnea. Practicing mindfulness, some yoga, surrounding yourself with uplifting people, exploring nature, and even journaling can positively impact your sleep apnea in the long term.

Try these other solutions.

Here are some other options to fix the physiological reasons behind your sleep apnea:

  • A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is one of the best therapies for OSA. Before you sleep, you’ll fit a breathing mask attached to a special device. The machine sends pressurized air through the passageways while you sleep, reducing snoring and sleep apnea episodes.
  • Allergies, constant throat infections, and tonsil infections can cause sleep apnea. Speak with an allergist or family doctor for medication to treat your allergies.
  • An ENT doctor can prescribe oral devices to maintain a clear passageway.
  • Surgery might help. This includes removing your adenoids, removing excess tissue at the back of the mouth, or realigning your jaw.

Working on your ED

Getting your sleep apnea under control will increase your oxygen levels and blood flow, which should improve your ED. Ironically, stopping ED in its tracks would require similar lifestyle changes I recommend that target your sleep apnea (exercise, dietary changes, and reducing alcohol). Beyond that, here are some other ED remedies that I recommend to my patients.

1. Try HRT

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) seeks to restore testosterone and other hormones to treat ED. HRT can also improve energy levels, muscle development, and overall vitality. You’ll get treatment in the form of pills, creams, patches, or injections. For men with mild cases of ED, HRT can be very effective.

2. Medication can help

There’s a reason why Cialis and Viagra remained popular all these years. Both medications are quite effective. If you’re a candidate for these drugs, you will see an almost immediate improvement in your ability to achieve and maintain erections.

Medication treats the root cause by improving nitric oxide production and allowing the blood vessels in the penis to relax. As a result, men should experience longer, harder erections.

3. Biologic therapy is on the rise.

I’ve been bullish on the benefits of biological therapy in sexual function. Platelet-rich plasma (the P-shot or PRP), for instance, uses your body’s platelets which helps with blood clotting after injury. These platelets also contain growth factors that help reduce inflammation and encourage healing. To complete the P-shot, we take a blood sample and place it in a centrifuge. The machine separates the platelets from the plasma and red blood cells. We then inject the concentrated platelets (with a bit of plasma) into your penis. Over time, PRP may improve the symptoms of ED.

5. Medical devices can help.

In severe cases, you may need a physical device to help you achieve and maintain an erection. Some common devices include penile implants, vacuum pumps, and special suppositories with medication. Each must be used correctly, as directed by a doctor, to avoid injury or unwanted complications. Soundwave treatment, like the Gainswave, can send pulses to the penis to encourage blood flood and blood vessel growth. This therapy happens over several sessions as prescribed by your doctor.

6. Let’s talk about it.

Medications and other devices can help, but they’re sometimes ineffective if you have a mental block about ED and having sex. Learning how to overcome ED through counseling is an effective, long-term solution. Both patient and partner could try sex therapy to improve communication both in and out of the sack. Both OSA and ED could be a sign of something deeper, so I also recommend screening for cardiovascular disease.

Take action. Your sleep and sex depend on it.

Sleep apnea and ED are no longer a coincidence. Obstructive sleep apnea, in particular, reduces the oxygen in the blood, impacts testosterone production, and increases fatigue. Over time, these symptoms overlap with your sex life, which can lead to ED.

If you’re struggling with ED, check to see if sleep apnea may be an underlying factor. Let’s get it under control so you can sleep better and enjoy amazing sex!

Links/References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6082539/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23589584/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19570042/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14510-nocturia

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4445839/

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-apnea/weight-loss-and-sleep-apnea

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5700252/

https://uroweb.org/wp-content/uploads/Haahr-press-release-FINAL.pdf

https://drtracygapin.com/high-intensity-interval-training/

https://drtracygapin.com/mens-health-guide-to-boost-your-metabolism/

https://drtracygapin.com/manage-ed-with-cutting-edge-science/

Biohacking Tips to Boost Testosterone with Dr. Tracy Gapin & Dave Asprey

Unlocking the Power of Testosterone: Insights from Dr. Tracy Gapin on The Human Upgrade

In a recent episode of The Human Upgrade, Dr. Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist and men’s health expert, delved into the crucial role of testosterone in overall health. As the founder of the GAPIN Institute, Dr. Gapin brings a wealth of knowledge on men’s health, particularly focusing on the alarming global decline in testosterone levels and its far-reaching effects on male behavior and well-being.

The Alarming Decline in Testosterone Levels

Dr. Gapin began by addressing a concerning trend: a significant decline in testosterone levels among men worldwide. This decline has been linked to various symptoms, including fatigue, decreased libido, and mood swings, which can profoundly impact daily life and long-term health.

Natural Methods to Boost Testosterone

For those looking to naturally boost their testosterone levels, Dr. Gapin shared several practical strategies. These include lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, and stress management techniques. Dr. Gapin emphasized the importance of sleep and recovery, noting that inadequate rest can severely disrupt hormone production.

The Challenges of Maintaining Optimal Levels

Maintaining optimal testosterone levels isn’t without its challenges. Dr. Gapin discussed the impact of environmental toxins, which can interfere with hormone balance. He provided practical tips for reducing exposure to these toxins, such as choosing organic foods, using natural cleaning products, and avoiding plastics.

Pros and Cons of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can be a viable option for some men, but it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Dr. Gapin outlined the benefits, such as improved energy levels and mood, while also cautioning about potential risks and side effects. He stressed the importance of personalized treatment plans, tailored to individual needs and health profiles.

The Role of Estrogen and DHT

In addition to testosterone, Dr. Gapin highlighted the roles of estrogen and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in men’s health. Both hormones play significant roles in various bodily functions, and their balance is crucial for maintaining overall health. Dr. Gapin explained how these hormones interact and the importance of monitoring their levels alongside testosterone.

Testosterone’s Impact on Brain Function and Cardiovascular Health

One of the most intriguing aspects of Dr. Gapin’s discussion was the impact of testosterone on brain function and cardiovascular health. Testosterone influences motivation, cognitive

function, and emotional well-being, making it a critical hormone for mental health. Moreover, adequate testosterone levels are essential for cardiovascular health, as they help maintain healthy blood vessels and regulate cholesterol levels.

Effective Delivery Methods of Boosting Testosterone

When it comes to Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), the method of delivery plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. Dr. Gapin discussed various options, including injections, gels, patches, and pellets, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. He emphasized the need for a personalized approach, ensuring that the chosen method aligns with the individual’s lifestyle and health needs.

Personalized Treatment Plans

A recurring theme in Dr. Gapin’s insights was the importance of personalized treatment plans. Each individual’s hormonal needs are unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is often ineffective. Comprehensive evaluations, including detailed hormonal assessments and lifestyle analyses, are essential for crafting effective treatment strategies.

Practical Tips for Reducing Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Environmental toxins are pervasive and can significantly impact hormone levels. Dr. Gapin provided actionable tips to minimize exposure, such as:

  • Choosing Organic Foods: Opt for organic produce to reduce ingestion of pesticides and chemicals.
  • Using Natural Cleaning Products: Switch to eco-friendly cleaning agents to avoid harmful chemicals.
  • Avoiding Plastics: Use glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic to reduce exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

Balancing Work, Life, and Health

Dr. Gapin also emphasized the importance of balancing work, life, and health. Chronic stress and burnout can severely impact testosterone levels. He suggested incorporating stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, and regular physical exercise into daily routines.

The Significance of Sleep and Recovery

Sleep is a cornerstone of hormonal health. Dr. Gapin highlighted the critical role of quality sleep and recovery in maintaining optimal testosterone levels. He recommended establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful sleep environment, and addressing any sleep disorders with professional help if necessary.

Boost your Testosterone Today!

Dr. Tracy Gapin’s appearance on The Human Upgrade podcast provided a comprehensive overview of the pivotal role of testosterone in men’s health. From natural methods to boost testosterone to the intricacies of Testosterone Replacement Therapy, Dr. Gapin’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their hormonal health. By understanding the factors that influence testosterone levels and implementing personalized strategies, men can significantly enhance their overall well-being.

For more information and resources, be sure to check out the GAPIN Institute’s Peak Launch.

Resources: Check out the Gapin Institute: https://gapininstitute.com/upgrade
Gapin Institute Linktree: https://linktr.ee/gapininstitute
Follow Dr. Tracy on Instagram:   / drtracygapin   ‪@DrTracyGapin‬

Want to join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live? Join Our Upgrade Collective: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com/ 

“The Top Causes of Low Testosterone in Men and How to Boost It Naturally” with Max Lugavere & Dr. Tracy Gapin

In the podcast “The Top Causes of Low Testosterone in Men and How to Boost It Naturally,” Max Lugavere and Dr. Tracy Gapin provide an in-depth exploration of the factors contributing to low testosterone levels in men and offer natural methods to address this issue. Dr. Gapin discusses the various causes of low testosterone, shedding light on the impact of modern lifestyles, stress, diet, and environmental factors on hormonal balance. This informative discussion is part of “The Genius Life” series hosted by Max Lugavere, where experts like Dr. Gapin share valuable insights on optimizing health and well-being.

Throughout the presentation, Max Lugavere and Dr. Tracy Gapin emphasize the importance of understanding the symptoms and implications of low testosterone, while also offering practical and holistic strategies to naturally boost testosterone levels. Their approach integrates scientific knowledge with actionable advice, making the information accessible and relevant to a wide audience.

Dr. Gapin’s expertise and engaging delivery captivate listeners, as he discusses the significance of optimizing sleep, managing stress, and adopting a nutrient-dense diet to support hormonal health. He also explores the role of exercise, supplementation, and mindfulness practices in promoting testosterone production and overall well-being.

What sets this podcast apart is Dr. Gapin’s ability to distill complex medical concepts into easily understandable information, empowering listeners to take charge of their health. By combining evidence-based insights with relatable examples, he effectively communicates the multifaceted nature of low testosterone and the potential for natural interventions.

Overall, “The Top Causes of Low Testosterone in Men and How to Boost It Naturally” offers a compelling blend of education and practical guidance, making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking to optimize their hormonal health. Dr. Gapin’s expertise and passion for empowering individuals to improve their well-being shine through in this enlightening presentation, leaving listeners with actionable steps to enhance their overall health and vitality.

Watch it on youtube:

Men’s Health Expert Dr. Tracy Gapin: Testosterone, ED, & How They Affect Everyone​

THE_GABBY_REECE_SHOW

Dr. Tracy Gapin is a renowned urologist and male health specialist who has dedicated his career to helping men optimize their health and performance. In a recent conversation, Dr. Gapin and his interviewer discussed the culprits of declining or poor health, including erectile dysfunction. They emphasized that many of the same factors that impact men’s libido and ability to perform also impact most people’s health. Therefore, Dr. Gapin’s approach to health and healthcare is beneficial for all humans.

During the conversation with Gabby Reece, Dr. Gapin shared insights on a range of topics, including how a simple mouth swab can help individuals determine the best diet based on their genetics. He also discussed ways to turn back the aging clock, navigate hormone supplementation, and which types of blood workups to ask your physician about.

The conversation also touched upon the impact of watching too much pornography and how it can destroy real-life sex life. Dr. Gapin provided tips on how to pull back and maintain a healthy balance.

At the end of the show, Dr. Gapin generously invited listeners to access his book and other valuable resources. His personalized approach to health and healthcare has helped countless men achieve optimal health and performance.

Overall, Dr. Gapin’s insights and recommendations are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their health and well-being. His expertise in male health and urology make him a leading authority in the field, and his compassionate approach to patient care sets him apart from other healthcare providers.

How Male Testosterone and Toxins Mess With You

Male Testosterone is often seen as the key to men’s health and performance. However, board-certified urologist Dr. Tracy Gapin is challenging this notion and offering new ways to improve men’s well-being beyond just testosterone. In this episode of The Human Upgrade™, he explains how a systems biology approach can provide a broader perspective on men’s health.

Dr. Tracy highlights the alarming decrease in testosterone levels over the last 30 years, with free testosterone down over 45%. He attributes this to endocrine disruptors, toxins, and chemicals in our environment that are crushing men’s health and testosterone. These toxins are found in food, water, and personal care products, and they are almost everywhere.

In his book, “The Testosterone Switch,” Dr. Tracy details how he went on a quest to find answers after experiencing his own health crash at 42. He founded a foundation and created a proprietary approach that goes beyond conventional options to address root causes of men’s issues and solve them.

Dr. Tracy emphasizes the impact of mindset, stress, and environment on energy and focus. He recommends a trifecta of prioritizing sleep, building resilience to stress, and creating consistent behaviors with intention for higher performance for male testosterone. He also explores various topics such as epigenetic coaching, hormones, peptide therapy, biometric monitoring, and unique nutrition and lifestyle interventions to improve health and performance.

This insightful conversation delves into epigenetic signals and gene expression, offering new ways for men to improve their health and well-being beyond just male testosterone. It is easy to read and understand, making it accessible for anyone interested in improving their health and performance. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from a board-certified urologist and discover new ways to upgrade your health.

Ozempic: Exploring the Benefits and Uses – A Comprehensive Review with Dr. Tracy Gapin

Cynthia Thurlow connects with Dr. Tracy Gapin today. He is a board-certified urologist and men’s health expert.

The current state of metabolic health in the United States and most westernized countries has sparked a great interest in a GLP1 agonist, AKA Semaglutide Ozempic. So I wanted to talk to a clinician actively utilizing this medication.

Dr. Gapin and I discuss what this drug class represents. (These are synthetic peptides.) We speak about Semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, and oral Rybelsus. We get into current research, side effects, who should not take these medications, and the mechanisms of action specific to the pancreas and beta cells, reductions, gastric emptying, and the upregulation of satiety. We discuss changes in the brain regarding leptin and how these drugs work. We also talk about weight loss resistance, and I answer questions from listeners.

From my perspective, it all comes back to basics. I believe that if we are to prescribe these medications, we must help our patients understand how lifestyle impacts weight-loss resistance and metabolic health. I loved that Dr. Tracy spent some time talking about the specific ways he works with his patients, even before prescribing medications. He also explains how important he has felt this drug has been for his patients.

I approached today’s conversation with an open mind, and I hope you will do the same.

Salty Sex Podcast: Testosterone Pandemic with Tracy Gapin

Mariah of the Salty Sex Cast recently had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Tracy Gapin, a world-renowned health and performance expert, and the founder of the Gapin Institute for High Performance Health about the Testosterone Pandemic. Dr. Gapin is a Board-Certified Urologist and a leading provider for GAINSWave, a noninvasive treatment to reverse the effects of erectile dysfunction.

In the interview, Dr. Gapin talks about his mission to create a more comprehensive approach to treating ED and other declining health disparities in men. He emphasizes the importance of taking a multifaceted approach to health, which includes not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being.

Dr. Gapin is particularly concerned about the testosterone pandemic, which he believes is a major health issue affecting men worldwide. He stresses the importance of identifying and addressing the underlying causes of low testosterone levels, rather than just treating the symptoms.

As a leading provider for GAINSWave, Dr. Gapin has helped many men reverse the effects of erectile dysfunction and improve their sexual health. He explains how this noninvasive treatment works by using low-intensity shockwaves to improve blood flow to the penis, which can lead to stronger and longer-lasting erections.

Throughout the interview about the Testosterone Pandemic, Dr. Gapin shares his insights and tips for improving men’s health and performance. He emphasizes the importance of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, as well as the need for personalized and integrative health care.

In conclusion, Dr. Tracy Gapin is a leading authority on men’s health and performance, and his insights and expertise are invaluable for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being. If you’re struggling with ED or other health issues, consider seeking out the services of a qualified provider like Dr. Gapin to help you achieve optimal health and performance.