High blood pressure patients are ‘at more risk of sexual dysfunction’

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition which affects around a third of adults in the UK.

If not treated, the condition could lead to serious health problems, like a heart attack or stroke.

Getting your blood pressure checked is the only way to see if it's too high.

The NHS says it's more common among people over the age of 65 or are overweight and don't exercise enough.

Causes also include eating too much salt or not getting enough sleep.

But sufferers should consider speaking to a doctor if they begin noticing changes in the bedroom.

According to Mayo Clinic, people with high blood pressure are more at risk of sexual dysfunction.

The condition might lead to a limited blood flow to certain parts of the body.

For men, it could result in erectile dysfunction if not enough blood is being delivered to the penis.

Meanwhile, women might find they have reduced sexual arousal, as well as difficulty reaching an orgasm.

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It said: "High blood pressure can quietly damage your body for years before symptoms develop.

"The inability to have and maintain an erection becomes increasingly common in men as they reach age 50.

"But men with high blood pressure are even more likely to experience erectile dysfunction.

"That's because limited blood flow caused by high blood pressure can block blood from flowing to your penis."

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The Mayo Clinic added: "Women can also experience sexual dysfunction as a result of high blood pressure.

"Reduced blood flow to the vagina can lead to a decrease in sexual desire or arousal, vaginal dryness, or difficulty achieving orgasm."

But just because you develop erectile dysfunction ir doesn't necessarily mean you have high blood pressure.

And as for vaginal dryness, this can be caused by menopause, breastfeeding or even cancer treatments, says the NHS.

So if you notice any changes in the bedroom, it's advised to see a doctor about your condition.

High blood pressure has been known as "the silent killer" because symptoms aren't always that obvious.

Adults over the age of 40 must check their blood pressure at least once every five years.

You can do this by visiting your local pharmacy, doctors' surgery or with a home pressure monitor.

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