Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication for men with diabetes. The good news is that recognizing and treating ED early on can help address symptoms and improve overall vascular health. Research shows that up to 75% of men with type 1 and type 2 diabetes may experience some degree of ED in their lifetime, often earlier and more severely than men without the disease. Let’s find out more about the impact of diabetes on ED and how to effectively deal with it.
What is the link between diabetes and ED?
Just as diabetes is impacted by the nervous system, blood vessels, hormones and psychological factors, so is ED. For example, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves (causing neuropathy, as well as create micro- and macrovascular issues that impact the blood vessels and impair the body’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Thyroid issues can also impact both blood sugar levels and ED, as can excess stress and substance abuse. On top of that, poor diabetes management can lower testosterone levels, further contributing to sexual dysfunction.
Why should you address ED early?
Men with diabetes can develop ED 10 to 15 years earlier than their peers without diabetes. The condition may occur only occasionally initially but could become progressively worse if the underlying issues remain untreated. But ED is also highly treatable, especially when addressed early.
Treating ED early can also have positive effects on other aspects of your health including:
- Better cardiovascular health: The blood vessels in the penis are smaller than those in the heart, so signs of vascular damage often appear there first. In fact, ED may precede symptoms of heart disease by three to five years. For men with diabetes who are already at higher risk for heart attack and stroke, ED can be a warning sign for cardiovascular issues. By addressing the condition early on with your healthcare provider, you can manage underlying heart complications before they lead to more serious issues.
- Improved diabetes management: There is a strong connection between glycemic control and erectile function. Poor blood sugar control can worsen ED and, conversely, ED can negatively impact mental health so you’re less motivated to manage your blood sugars. In treating ED, men may experience improvements in mood, confidence, and their overall commitment to managing their diabetes.
- Greater mental and emotional health: Sexual health is a vital part of our overall well-being. For many men, ED can lead to frustration, embarrassment and strained relationships, which can spiral into depression and anxiety. Early recognition and treatment of ED can significantly enhance self-esteem, intimacy and relationship connections. Openly communicating with a partner and your healthcare provider can make a significant difference in coping with symptoms and recovery.
- Better treatment outcomes: Medications can be effective, particularly when vascular and nerve damage are not yet severe. Delaying treatment may reduce the effectiveness of these interventions. In advanced cases, men may require more invasive options such as penile injections, vacuum devices, or surgical implants. Early treatment can often prevent progression to this stage.
As ED is often attributed to various factors, keep in mind that this means interventions and treatment options can have varying degrees of success too.
How to deal with ED
If you’re experiencing signs of ED, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about all your symptoms to ensure you can find the best treatment options for you. Improving your ED issues may involve:
- Improving diabetes management: Better A1C levels, blood pressure and lipid profiles can lead to better outcomes.
- Making healthy lifestyle changes: Smoking cessation, regular exercise, weight management, and reduced alcohol and marijuana intake can all help to improve erectile function.
- Taking medications as needed: There are several safe and effective options currently available to treat ED, even for men with cardiovascular disease. Your healthcare provider can help find the right treatment for you, or look for reputable online healthcare providers such as Felix Health who offer discrete support and information on treatment options.
- Seeking psychological support: Remember that addressing your mental health is just as important as physical health in managing ED.
During your diabetes check-ups, never feel embarrassed to talk about your sexual concerns too. Seeking help is a sign of strength and not weakness.
More than a sexual health issue, erectile dysfunction can be an early signal of other health problems. For men with diabetes, early recognition and treatment of ED can lead to better overall health outcomes, enhanced quality of life, and stronger personal relationships. It’s a conversation that’s always worth having sooner rather than later.
Sponsored by Felix Health, a partner who shares our mission of providing trusted health education.
