In the turn of the 21st century, many formerly unknown diseases, have been discovered while on the other hand, treatments for formerly dreaded diseases have been developed. However, with the advancement of technology has come a rapid rise in the cases of impotence. With this post, I hope to bring you up to speed on how our present-day actions affect potency.
- ALCOHOL INTAKE
Excessive drinking lowers testosterone levels and reduction is quality and quantity of sperm cells produced. Alcoholics are prone to liver diseases which also engender fertility problems and erectile dysfunction.
- Tobacco smoking:
Tobacco smoking possesses a very potent chemical very similar to zinc, which may replace zinc in the DNA polymerase. The polymerase plays a critical role in sperm production. Hence zinc, replaced by cadmium in DNA polymerase can be particularly damaging to the testes.
- Exposure to chemicals:
Lead, pesticides,organic solvents, painting materials and xylene may contribute to low sperm count.
- Stress:
Severe stress may lead to reduced sperm production. Emotional stress should be watched so as not to lead to a low sperm count.
- Radiation:
Radiation can lead to a reduced sperm production. Hence, most chemotherapy patients and individuals who have constant contact with x-ray, stand a high risk of permanent reduction in sperm count.
- Overheating of the testicles:
When you sit for long ,work for long, place your laptop on your laps or wear tight clothing, you expose your testes to overheating and this may reduce your sperm production.
- Obesity:
Overweight individuals, may be posed with fertility challenges. Their weight directly impacts on their sperm cells and may cause hormonal changes that reduce male fertility.
- Drug Intake:
Cocaine and marijuana, lead to a temporary reduction in the quality and number of sperm cells . In addition, Anabolic steroids(muscle growth steroids) as well as most hard drugs, shrink the testicles and reduce sperm production.
In my next post, I'll share preventive measures for sterility