Sexual Dysfunction and Diabetes – Part 1

Individuals who suffer from Diabetes often suffer long-term consequences and complications from a high level of glucose in the blood stream. This high level of glucose is a result of the metabolic condition called Diabetes. Over the long term one of these significant medical conditions which results is erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction is a common problem in men who have Diabetes but, thanks to recent advancements in treatment protocols, it is not inevitable. Physicians now have strategies to prevent this condition as well as treatment options for men who already have difficulties with sexual dysfunction.

Men who have Diabetes are three times more likely to have erectile dysfunction than are other men, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. In fact, it is estimated that up to 85% of men who have Diabetes will experience some degree of erectile dysfunction. And, the longer an individual has had diabetes and the more severe the condition, the more likely they are to have trouble with erections. (1)

When this condition is left untreated it results in frustration, discouragement and often depression. Unfortunately, it is also a condition which men are unwilling to speak about with ease. For this reason physicians who are treating a man with diabetes should take an active role in seeking information about their sexual health in order to assist in any way possible.

Basically, erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an adequate erection for satisfying sexual activity. In some instances the penis does not become hard at all and in other instances it does not become hard enough to have sex. (2) Many people are aware of the medications available to treat men who have erectile dysfunction as they grow older. The advertising for Viagra and Cialis, to name just two medications, is so widespread that most individuals who live within earshot of a television or who have picked up a magazine will have some knowledge of these options.

References:

(1) National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Sexual and Urologic Problems of Diabetes

http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/sup/index.aspx

(2) National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Erectile Dysfunction

http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/ED/index.aspx

(3) National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Sexual and Urologic Problems of Diabetes

http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/sup/