For men living with diabetes, diabetic impotence can be one of the more difficult side effects to endure. Unfortunately, studies have shown that men with diabetes have an increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction. People with diabetes possess high levels of blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels and nerves in the body. In a man’s body, when blood vessels are damaged, nitric oxide is not released, causing blood vessels to be constricted and ultimately reducing blood flow to the penis, preventing an erection.
Other causes of diabetic impotence include high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which are common problems for men with diabetes. High blood pressure may damage blood vessels, decreasing blood flow to the penis. High cholesterol can prevent blood vessels from dilating properly, also preventing circulating of blood to the area.
It’s not just lack of proper blood flow that causes erectile dysfunction in diabetics. According to the American Diabetes Association, medicines for certain diabetes-related problems such as high blood pressure or depression may lead to impotence, as can some medications for stomach ulcers and heartburn. Further, impotence may be caused by prostate or bladder surgery.
Other Causes of Impotence in Diabetic Men
Not all causes of erectile dysfunction in diabetic men are related to blood vessel damage or medications. Certain lifestyle choices also may contribute to impotence, including smoking, which reduces blood flow, as well as obesity and lack of physical activity. And then there are psychological factors that can affect sexuality in men, such as the stress, anxiety, and depression related to coping with diabetes. According the American Diabetes Association, psychological factors may account for as many of 10 to 20 percent of erectile dysfunction cases.
Treating Diabetic Impotence
As with many effects of diabetes, diabetic impotence can often be controlled by managing one’s blood glucose levels. Keeping one’s blood glucose at a healthy level can help to prevent damage to blood vessels and other problems that restrict healthy blood flow.
While it may be an embarrassing subject, diabetic men are encouraged to talk to their doctors if they are experiencing problems with impotence. Only then can the doctor assess what may be causing the problem and recommend a course of action. If the problem is related to a patient’s medication, then the doctor may recommend changing medicines or altering the dosage.
Certain lifestyle changes may help to prevent impotence in diabetic men. They may wish to stop smoking, or to exercise or lose weight. Also, since psychological factors may play a role in impotence, men suffering from this problem may wish to engage in activities that reduce stress, such as yoga, massage, or meditation.
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