Heart Health and Sexual Activity: What Increases Your Risk?
Heart Health and Sexual Activity: What Increases Your Risk?
The Big Picture
Are you at risk of heart issues during sex? Learn what factors could increase the chances and how to mitigate them.
Contents
- Common Risk Factors
- Exercise Tolerance
- The Role of Anxiety
Common Risk Factors
Smoking, obesity, and hypertension are common risk factors. These not only affect heart health but also sexual function. Being aware of these can help you take preventive action.
Exercise Tolerance
Your ability to exercise without symptoms is a good indicator of heart risk. Those who can handle moderate exercise are at lower risk during sexual activity. Discuss your exercise capacity with your doctor to understand your risk better.
The Role of Anxiety
Anxiety about sex can increase the risk of heart events. It's important to address these feelings and discuss them with your healthcare provider. Managing stress and anxiety can significantly lower your risk.
FAQs
What are common risk factors?
Smoking, obesity, and hypertension.
How does exercise tolerance relate to risk?
Better exercise tolerance means lower risk.
Can anxiety affect heart risk?
Yes, managing anxiety can lower heart risk.
Key Takeaways
Understanding your risk factors can help you stay safe during sexual activity.
Additional References
- Mittelman MA, et al. Triggering of cardiac events by physical and sexual activity. JAMA 2011; 305:1225.
- Friedman S. Cardiac disease, anxiety, and sexual functioning. Am J Cardiol 2000; 86:46F.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.