Erectile Dysfunction Is Often an Endothelial Problem — Not Just a Performance Issue

The Overlooked Root Cause

Viagra® and Cialis® help blood flow temporarily, but why the blood flow is impaired is the real story. In most men, ED reflects endothelial dysfunction—the same vascular impairment linked to heart disease.

What the Endothelium Does

The endothelium lines every blood vessel, producing nitric oxide (NO)—the chemical signal that tells arteries to relax. Inflammation, high sugar, smoking, and low testosterone reduce NO production, restricting flow to the smallest vessels—especially penile tissue.

Common Contributors

  • Insulin resistance / prediabetes
  • High blood pressure or cholesterol
  • Low testosterone + high estradiol
  • Sedentary lifestyle or sleep apnea

The Sheen Vein Men’s Health Protocol

Our St. Louis practice blends vascular medicine with functional optimization:

  • Nitric-oxide support: L-citrulline, beet extract, pycnogenol.
  • Red-light therapy + PEMF: boosts microcirculation and endothelial repair.
  • Testosterone balance: bio-identical or natural support as indicated.
  • Peptide options: PT-141 or BPC-157 for vascular regeneration.
  • Lifestyle: resistance training, fasting, stress reduction.

When to Evaluate Further

Persistent ED warrants testing for cardiovascular risk. The penis is an early indicator—the “check-engine light” of vascular health.

Bottom Line

ED is rarely just psychological—it’s physiological. Restoring endothelial health improves vitality, confidence, and long-term heart health.

👉 Learn about our Men’s Health & Hormone Optimization and Red-Light Therapy for Circulation.