A:
It is possible that one of your blood pressure drugs is making it more difficult to maintain an erection (erectile dysfunction). But this is a fairly common problem, especially as you get older. Up to 20% of men ages 50 to 59 report the problem. As do 35% of men ages 70 to 75. So your blood pressure pills may not be the reason.
According to a study of men with mild hypertension, most blood pressure medicines do not cause erectile dysfunction. That said, there are some that seem more likely than others to affect sexual function. They include:
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Chlorthalidone
- Clonindine
- Spironolactone
- Methyldopa
If you take any of these, talk with your doctor. Maybe you could make some medication changes since your blood pressure is well controlled.
By the way, congratulations on the regular exercise! This gives you an even better chance of improving the problem.
