Diabetes mellifluous DM and erectile dysfunction (ED) are interlinked, and men with diabetes are more likely to experience ED compared to those without the condition.Men with diabetes mellifluous DM have a significantly higher risk of experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED) compared to men without the condition, with studies showing that they are three times more likely to develop ED. Let us make it easier for you to understand the physiology and phenomenon between erectile dysfunction and diabetes and what men can do to reduce the damage that DM is doing to your sexual life..
Diabetes reduces the production or use of insulin in our body, insulin is a hormone that helps regulate the levels of sugar in our blood. Over time, high sugar level in the blood can damage the blood vessels by accumulating the plaque in the endothelial lining of blood vessels causing blockage and decreasing the blood flow to vital organs as well as to the penis and high blood sugar also damages the myelin sheath of nerves in our body which also include the ones that control sexual function, thus leading to ED and PE
Nerve Damage
Diabetes can damage nerves, this condition is known as Diabetic neuropathy, this is a slow process which can affect the nerves that control sexual function. This can result in decreased or altered sensation and difficulty in achieving and sustaining an erection.
Blood Vessel Damage
Diabetes can also damage the endothelial wall of blood vessels that supply blood to our vital organs as well as the penis; reduced blood flow makes it more difficult to gain and maintain an erection.
Hormonal Imbalance
Diabetes can also cause hormonal disturbances that can affect sexual performance. High levels of sugar in blood can decrease the blood testosterone levels, leading to a decrease in libido and sexual desire.
Medications
Medications used for diabetes, such as insulin injections and oral hypoglycemic drugs, can also contribute to ED by affecting blood flow to the penis. Men can discuss with their endocrinologist about alternative medications or treatment options to minimize the impact on their sexual function.
Psychological Factors
As with any health condition, psychological factors such as anxiety and depression can also contribute to ED in men with diabetes mellitus DM.
Minimizing the risk of ED is crucial for men with diabetes, therefore it is important for them to effectively manage their blood sugar levels.Because the more sugar levels in your blood the more it accumulates in the lining of blood vessels causing the narrowing of the lumen of these tiny vessels and thus reducing the blood flow and leading to stroke in brain heart attack, renal failure and ED.
Adapting a healthy diet, regular exercising, and taking suitable medications as prescribed can reduce or delay the effects of DM on sexual function. If you have DM and you’re one of the unlucky men who is facing ED due to DM, you should make it sure that you keep your sugar levels in limits, do exercise, take medication, and you may also need a sexologist’s help for proper therapy or medication for your ED. You can also consider Psychological counseling or training that may also be beneficial in addressing any underlying psychological factors.
In conclusion, erectile dysfunction and diabetes are closely linked, DM is one of the 5 major causes of ED, and men with diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing ED. However, there are different ways to manage this condition and maintain a healthy sexual life. If you are experiencing ED, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.
