According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), men who have diabetes are three times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction than men who do not have diabetes. Yet there are actions you can take to help prevent this frustrating complication of diabetes.
Why is Erectile Dysfunction More Common Among Diabetic Men?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, is the inability to achieve or sustain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. Erections occur as a result of increased blood flow to the penis. Any decrease in blood flow to the penis can make it difficult for a man to achieve or sustain an erection.
In men without diabetes, the causes of ED can be psychological or physiological, including factors such as fatigue, stress, chronic illness, medications and other factors. In men with diabetes, erectile dysfunction is more likely to be caused by the impairment of blood flow to the penis:
- Blood sugar levels that are too high can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erection.
- Poorly-controlled blood sugars can interfere with the release of nitric oxide – a chemical that helps to increase blood flow to the penis.
- Cardiovascular disease, a common complication of diabetes, can narrow or harden blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the penis.
Estimates suggest that 35 to 75% of men with diabetes will experience some degree of erectile dysfunction during their lifetime, and it tends to occur 10 to 15 years earlier than in men without diabetes. The longer you’ve had diabetes and the more severe it is, the more likely you are to develop ED.
Solutions for Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Diabetes
Perhaps the most obvious solution is to take an oral medication specifically for the treatment of erectile dysfunction such as Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. However, these drugs are not safe for all men and should not be used if you take nitrates for heart disease or alpha blockers for prostate enlargement or high blood pressure.
Other solutions include:
- Controlling your blood sugars to prevent nerve and blood vessel damage
- Changing any medications that may contribute to erectile dysfunction
- Quitting smoking, which narrows blood vessels and decreases nitric oxide levels
- Limiting the amount of alcohol you drink, which can also damage blood vessels
- Controlling and reducing your stress levels
- Exercising regularly and getting plenty of sleep to prevent fatigue
- Asking your doctor about other treatments such as intracavernous injection therapy, vacuum constriction devices or intra-urethral therapy
If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor about preventing or treating erectile dysfunction. It’s important to your individual well-being, as well as to your relationship with your partner.
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