Urologic conditions such as erectile dysfunction, infertility, and overactive bladder may develop as a result of a number of different factors. Some of the factors related to conditions like these relate to how a person lives from day to day. This is good news, because it affords us the opportunity to reduce the risk of urologic problems by looking at lifestyle modifications. One lifestyle change that is recommended often is that smoking comes to an end.

Before discussing the particular urologic conditions that can be adversely affected by smoking, we want to point out that research points to a number of forms of tobacco use and smoking that are detrimental. Habits such as smokeless tobacco, hooka-smoking, and the use of e-cigarettes are as harmful as cigarettes, according to studies. Furthermore, second-hand smoke also poses a risk.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking-related disease currently affects more than 16 million people in our country. As this relates to urologic conditions, we see a link between smoking and . . .

Erectile dysfunction

The range of physical and psychological factors related to erectile dysfunction includes smoking. Scientists suggest that the connection between the two may be the damage that smoking causes to the blood vessels throughout the body, including the small vessels responsible for supplying the penis. In many cases, erectile dysfunction is diagnosed as a man ages. However, cases that are diagnosed in men of all ages reveal a strong link to smoking.

Infertility

Smokers are twice as likely to struggle with infertility than non-smokers. For many years now, doctors have discouraged smoking during pregnancy. However, studies have also indicated that smoking may impede a couple’s effort to conceive by harming the genetic value of sperm and eggs. Additionally, smoking may disrupt hormone production, and create an unfriendly uterine environment that increases the risk of miscarriage and birth defects.

On the bright side of research, we see that fertility begins to improve within 2 months after a couple stops smoking and may be completely reversed within 12 months.

Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder is a type of urinary incontinence that affects more than 30 million Americans. This condition disrupts sleep, sometimes several times a night, and diminishes quality of life due to a need to remain close to a bathroom. Studies have revealed that women who smoke cigarettes are three-times more likely to develop symptoms of overactive bladder than non-smokers. It is believed that this is caused by the toxic chemicals from cigarettes collecting in urine.

Bladder Cancer

Here again, we see that the chemicals in cigarettes collect in urine and irritate the lining of the bladder. In 50- to 60 percent of bladder cancer diagnoses in men, smoking is a related cause. In women, smoking is thought to contribute to approximately 20- to 30 percent of bladder cancer diagnoses.

There is widespread evidence that confirms the extensive dangers of smoking. As a collective, the medical community supports patients in developing lifestyle habits that promote health and longevity. As a practice, we are focused on helping men of all ages sustain vital wellness. For more information on our urology services, call (423) 778-4636.

The discussion regarding the dangers of smoking has gone on for many years now. However, the prevalence of this common addiction remains high. There is no question that the chemicals in cigarettes and other tobacco products are addictive. There is also no question that they can harm the body in more ways than one. As we discover the reach of these toxic chemicals, the sense of urgency in helping smokers overcome their habit increases.

The fact that smoking significantly increases the risk of death is not a secret. What may easily be missed along the way, though, is the adverse effects that smoking can have on the body. Besides the lungs, the heart, and the mouth, smoking is a great risk to the urological system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 16 million Americans are living with a disease that can be attributed to smoking.

Urological conditions related to smoking include:

Infertility

Studies suggest that smoking doubles the risk for infertility. There are several reasons why. First, smoking damages both sperm and eggs. The chemicals from cigarettes and even from smokeless tobacco are absorbed by tissue throughout the body, including the uterus. The adverse effect on uterine tissue correlates to an increased risk of both infertility and miscarriage.

Couples who are in the family planning phase are encouraged to replace smoking with healthier habits. Doing so improves the chances of conception within 2 months and can significantly improve fertility within one year.

Erectile Dysfunction

Smoking is one of several factors that have been associated with a man’s risk of developing erectile dysfunction. Studies indicate that smoking can quickly begin to damage blood vessels in the body. Because erection relies on blood circulation into the penis, a moderate degree of damage to the circulatory system may translate into erectile dysfunction.

Overactive Bladder

More than 30 million Americans suffer from the strong and sudden urge to urinate. This type of urinary incontinence is referred to as overactive bladder. While there are several potential factors related to this condition, smoking has been identified as a significant cause. This could be associated with the accumulation of toxic chemicals in the urine of smokers. Overactive bladder largely affects women, and those who smoke have three times the risk of those who do not.

Bladder Cancer

Like overactive bladder symptoms, bladder cancer may be preceded by an accumulation of toxins in the urine. Research suggests that smoking is an instigating cause of bladder cancer in up to 60% of cases diagnosed in men. Furthermore, as much as 30% of the bladder cancer diagnosed in women relates to a smoking habit.

UT Urology provides comprehensive care for the treatment of urologic conditions. To learn more, call (423) 778-8765.