Does Diabetes Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

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Does Diabetes Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. People with diabetes have to manage their blood levels to prevent long-term health problems such as nerve pain, kidney damage, and heart problems. Does diabetes cause erectile dysfunction? Yes. It often poses emotional and neurological problems that may make it difficult to have or maintain an erection. 

Does Diabetes Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are often linked to erectile dysfunction. Men with diabetes are 50% more likely to have erectile dysfunction than those without diabetes. 

Erectile dysfunction is commonly caused by; the insufficient flow of blood to the penis, neurological problems, or psychological issues. Diabetes can make all of these problems worse. 

Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction

When trying to diagnose erectile dysfunction, your doctor will perform the following tests;

•     Hormone tests to determine the levels of testosterone and other hormones
•     Blood tests to determine your blood sugar levels
•     Urinalysis which may be used to diagnose diabetes
•     Physical exam to assess your nerve reflexes in the penis or legs

Your doctor will try to determine your sexual health history. They will ask questions to determine the severity of your problem. They may inject a drug into your penis to test if the blood supply is normal. 

How is Diabetes Linked to Erectile Dysfunction?

1. It Damages Blood Vessels

If you have diabetes, it means that there is a lot of sugar in your bloodstream. The sugar may damage your small blood vessels leading to kidney damage and nerve pain. If there is damage to blood vessels in the penis, it can be difficult to get an erection. As a result, men who have diabetes are likely to have erectile dysfunction. 

2. The Side Effects of Diabetes Medication

Diabetes medication may cause erectile dysfunction. Most men with erectile dysfunction are treated with various medications to reduce complications. Some of it lowers blood pressure leading to side effects that make it difficult to get an erection. 

3. Reduced Testosterone Levels

About 25% of men with diabetes also have low levels of testosterone. Low testosterone levels may cause erectile dysfunction.

4. Depression and Mental Health Issues

Dealing with diabetes can take a huge toll on you and your mental health. It is likely to cause depression and anxiety which ultimately leads to erectile dysfunction. Depression leads to insomnia which may lead to fatigue and reduced sex drive throughout the day. It may lead to anxiety which makes one lose suddenly lose an erection.

Are you struggling with erectile dysfunction, consider seeking the help of Dr. Lazare Urology. He is a nationally-recognized Brooklyn, NY urologist with wide experience in the insertion of the three-piece penile implant for treating severe erectile problems. He treats problems of the sexual system for both men and women.

Every day, he treats urinary tract infection, erectile dysfunction, prostate problems, and kidney infection. Dr. Lazare is professional and he treats all his patients like family. If you need help, contact us today at (718) 568-7516 and book an appointment.