Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a problem for many men with diabetes. Having erectile dysfunction – the inability to get or maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity – can have a negative impact on your quality of life and leave you feeling frustrated and unhappy. Luckily, the more you know, the better you can start dealing with the issue, as there are various options for treatment and preventative strategies.
How are diabetes and erectile function connected?
Erectile dysfunction is commonly found in men who have diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that diabetics are 3.5 times more likely to suffer from ED than the general population. One of the causes of ED is damage to nerves and blood vessels, which can come about as a result of long-term blood sugar problems. It is thought that men with diabetes are likely to suffer from ED earlier in life than those men not living with diabetes. While there are numerous and complex causes for ED, diabetes is often related when there are problems with nerve, blood vessel, and muscle function. High blood pressure and heart disease, conditions commonly found in men with diabetes, have also been linked to ED.
What are the treatment options?
Men with diabetes who are struggling to achieve or maintain an erection can take medication to help solve the problem. Some medicines can be prescribed by your doctor, so it would be a good idea to talk to them about your options, even if it feels embarrassing.
Oral medications: Sildenafil, more commonly known by the brand name Viagra, is a widely used oral medication and is sold by various brands. It can make a real difference to your ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Other drugs are also available, such as tadalafil, vardenafil, or avanafil. These pills help with blood flow to the penis, so it is easier to engage in sexual activity.
As well as these oral medications, there are other treatments worth investigating.
Vacuum devices: A special type of pump can be used to draw blood into the penis in order to achieve an erection. A hollow plastic tube is placed over the penis, and the pump, which is battery-powered or operated by hand, creates a vacuum, ensuring blood flow. A band is placed at the base of the penis to make sure the erection can be maintained when the tube is removed.
Other treatments include surgical penile implants, injections, and hormone treatment. Some people may also benefit from sex therapy. The best treatment for you will depend on various factors, like your health and lifestyle. Whatever treatment you opt for, bear in mind that some behavioral changes could also make a real difference to the condition.
Factors and preventative strategies:
To achieve an erection, men need healthy blood vessels and nerves, so even if the desire is there, it can be difficult to obtain an erection. Lifestyle and general health can play a big part in this condition, so start thinking about how to make the right choices to help your body function as you would like it to. Smoking, being overweight, and a lack of exercise can all have a negative impact on your erectile function.
Smoking: If you can manage to give up smoking, you could notice a big difference, as it narrows blood vessels and decreases levels of nitric oxide, which affects blood flow to the penis.
Obesity: Try getting rid of excess weight to improve your condition.
Alcohol: Try to limit alcohol consumption, as it can negatively impact your ability to get and maintain an erection.
Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine to improve circulation and general health.
Overall, it’s important to remember that there are ways you can improve erectile function, so try not to feel discouraged, and find out which treatment is most suitable for you.
