In an age, where digital devices have become a part and parcel of our daily lives, most people are glued to their computer screens all day long, be it for work or leisure. While many studies have previously stated how a sedentary lifestyle is correlated with erectile dysfunction, a study published in the Andrology journal (2024) found out that long-term usage of computers, especially for leisurely activities like gaming and watching videos was significantly associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction in men.
The study also revealed that extended computer usage is linked to lower follicle-stimulating hormone levels. Dr Justin Dubin, urologist and men’s health specialist, Memorial Healthcare System, South Florida, affirms that, “It is a good study which suggests that exercise and physical activity can improve your health and prevent erectile dysfunction.”
The cost we pay for convenience
With the recent technological advancements, every person has become more habitual of spending extended periods in front of screens for work, entertainment or socializing, says Dr Sanjay Prakash J, consultant microsurgical andrologist and urologist, AINU, Chennai.
While technology offers a myriad of benefits and conveniences, its overindulgence may come at a cost. Excessive computer usage can negatively impact men’s sexual health, which is something that cannot be overlooked, he added. Dr Prakash explained, “The study involved more than 200,000 men, which documented that the chance of experiencing ED is increased by 3.57 times for every additional 1.2 hours spent using a computer.”
While occasional instances of erectile difficulties are common as a person ages, having persistent issues can pose a problem and requires medical intervention.
How computer use leads to ED?
The primary factors leading to erectile dysfunction in men are:
Sedentary lifestyle
According to Dr Prakash, sitting in front of the computer for long hours can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. Leading a sedentary lifestyle is associated with obesity, poor cardiovascular health and reduced blood flow—all of which are risk factors for erectile dysfunction in men. Additionally, Dr Chirag Bhandari, andrologist and founder, Institute of Andrology and Sexual Health (IASH), Jaipur, says, “Because of lack of exercise, the testosterone level goes down hampering the sex drive (libido) and leading to erectile dysfunction.
Improper posture
Maintaining an improper posture while using a computer, such as slouching or hunching over a keyboard can contribute to muscular tension and reduce blood flow to the pelvic area, resulting in erectile dysfunction, says Dr Prakash.
Blue light exposure
Dr Prakash elucidates how the blue light emitted by computer screens, especially during the evening hours or late at night, can disrupt the circadian rhythm and interfere with the production of hormones like melatonin and testosterone, which play an important role in sexual health.
Psychological issues
There are studies that have demonstrated that more screen time leads to depression, which makes the libido go down,” says Dr Bhandari. Adding to that, Dr Prakash highlighted that excessive computer usage involving stressful work, inclusive of online activities and watching pornography can contribute to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and aggressiveness, which are also known factors leading to ED.
How to manage and treat ED?
To reduce the risks of developing erectile dysfunction due to prolonged computer usage, experts give various strategies that can help.
- Lead a healthy lifestyle: Regular sleep of 6-8 hours along with some form of physical activity for at least an hour per day for five days a week.
- Maintain an ideal BMI: The BMI (Body Mass Index) should ideally be between 25 and 27 as it is responsible for penile erection.
- Have a good diet: Cut down on fatty foods and follow a mediterranean type of diet, which contains a smaller number of refined sugars, less fats, more protein, more fibers, green vegetables, nuts and fresh fruits.
- Take regular breaks: Standing up and stretching in between your computer usage is important to improve blood circulation and reduce the negative impacts of sitting for prolonged periods.
- Maintain a proper posture: Stay upright with your back supported and adjust the height of your screen to reduce the strain on your neck and back.
- Limit screen time: Create a balance between digital activities and other forms of recreation or relaxation by setting limits on the time you spend in front of screens.
- Practice stress management: Inculcate stress-reducing activities like meditation, exercise or other hobbies that you enjoy in your daily routine.
- Kegel exercises: Kegel exercises should be monitored and supervised by a core specialist as not all of them can be advised.
- Seek professional help: If you experience symptoms of ED, do not hesitate to seek advice from a qualified andrologist.
Takeaways
- Prolonged computer usage can contribute to erectile dysfunction through various physical and psychological mechanisms.
- A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major reasons for erectile dysfunction as it is associated with obesity, poor cardiovascular health and reduced blood flow.
- Being aware of the potential risks and taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle, one can reduce the chances of developing ED.
