The Practical Aspects

Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction

Problems pertaining to sex are generally not discussed, a reason why many men suffer erectile dysfunction (also referred to as impotence) in silence. Having erectile dysfunction (ED) means that all, most, or some of the time, the penis fails to become or stay hard enough for sexual intercourse. Owing to the sensitive nature of the problem, it is difficult to tell whether the problem is more common among men with diabetes than it is among those without diabetes.

There is a great deal of confusion as to what exactly is ED, even in educated persons. Men must keep in mind that, on rare occasions, when they cannot get an erection, it is not a problem of ED. Besides, a decrease in sexual desire, premature ejaculation, or failing to ejaculate or reach orgasm do not indicate ED. The problem only refers to an inability to get or maintain an erection.

However, in case of men with diabetes, ED is a common problem and studies have revealed the following:

1. ED is age-related, often developing in men older than 50. Diabetes is also more common in this older age-group.
2. Men with diabetes tend to develop ED 10–15 years earlier than men without diabetes.
3. Fifty to sixty percent of all men with diabetes over age 50 have some problem with ED.

Causes in case of diabetics

Although ED can be caused by many things, the most common causes in men with diabetes are problems related to blood vessel and nerve-related complications. Other causes for ED in diabetics are:

• Hormonal imbalance
• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety about sexual performance.
• Medications

Prevention

Diabetics can reduce their risk of developing ED by keeping their blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. Other necessary interventions that would help in preventing the problem are:

• Quitting smoking
• Reducing intake of alcohol
• Keeping blood pressure under control

Apart from these, exercise can also help as it strengthens muscles, promotes weight loss, reduces stress, and helps a diabetic person feel better about himself.

Left untreated, erection problems can hurt self-confidence and relationships. The first step to restoring a satisfying sex life is to seek help from a health care provider.

Most healthy men have several erections each night when they sleep. A health care provider may order a sleep study to test for it, in case of persons with this problem. This would clarify if the problem is psychological, and accordingly a diabetic person and his partner may be offered counseling.

Other tests the doctor would recommend are:

• Tests for blood vessel damage
• Nerve damage
• Testosterone measurement.

Treatment

Sorting out the exact cause of ED, in case of a diabetic person may take some time for his doctor. Therefore, diabetics with this problem need to provide all details pertaining to medicines, including over-the-counter or herbal products. Besides, drugs frequently used to treat high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, and peptic ulcers can all cause ED. However, they are not to be stopped without first talking to the doctor.

Depending on the underlying cause, there are many possible treatments available for ED, and treatment can be tailored to suit individual medical problems and lifestyle.

The following treatment options are indicated:

• Pills such as Viagra
• Injections
• Vacuum pumps and implantable pumps
• Supplemental testosterone
• Psychological counseling

Diabetics suffering with ED need to discuss their options thoroughly with their health care provider. Besides, talking things over with their partner is very important so that, as a couple they agree on the treatment and goals they hope to achieve. It is worthwhile to note that ED is one of the most treatable complications of diabetes. By working closely with a health care provider, a diabetic person with this problem and his partner can find the solution that works best for them, as a couple.