Among the many conditions that men can get, one that can cause many complications is diabetes. While this condition can affect both men and women, it causes some particular issues for men.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition associated with how the body turns glucose into energy. When we eat food, the complex components are divided into smaller and simpler parts. One of the parts is sugar, which is released into your bloodstream. The pancreas is responsible for releasing insulin to balance blood sugar.
However, if you have diabetes, your body either does not make enough insulin or can’t properly utilize the insulin the pancreas produces. This results in too much glucose in the bloodstream, leading to other health problems.
Diabetes symptoms may vary depending on your blood sugar levels, but listed below are the common signs and symptoms of diabetes:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
Effects of Diabetes on Men’s Health
Diabetes can increase an individual’s risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart and kidney diseases. It can also lead to vision loss and amputation due to non-healing ulcers. While these health effects can occur in both men and women with diabetes, men can experience some other health problems due to this chronic condition.
Erectile Dysfunction
This condition is characterized by a man’s inability to keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. Men who have diabetes are at a particularly high risk of developing erectile dysfunction. To get an erection, men must have healthy nerves and blood vessels. Diabetes, specifically chronically high blood sugar, damages nerves, blood vessels, and muscle function.
Retrograde Ejaculation
High blood glucose levels can cause nerve damage or neuropathy. In particular, diabetes may result in autonomic neuropathy. This affects the nerves that control the genitals and bladder, among other organs.
Rarely, this can cause retrograde ejaculation, in which all or part of a man’s semen goes into the bladder instead of through the urethra. Semen mixes with the urine, which is safely urinated. While not a harmful effect of diabetes, it can result in male infertility.
Other Men’s Health Problems
In addition to erectile dysfunction, diabetes also increases your risk of developing other health conditions. These include:
- Peyronie’s disease
- Overflow incontinence
- Low testosterone
- Fertility problems due to slow-moving sperm
If these problems occur, it’s in your best interest to consult with your doctors. Your primary care provider can help you manage diabetes better. Meanwhile, a men’s health specialist can address the complications of diabetes that affect your sexual and reproductive health.
Men’s Health Specialist in Edmonds and Seattle, WA
Some men feel uncomfortable discussing their sexual health with doctors. However, you need their help to address your condition, receive proper treatment, and lead a happier life.
Here at Affirm Clinic, we are committed to protecting your privacy. We have an optional alternative exit and a separate reception area. Our team is composed of male professionals dedicated to helping men restore their virility.
We understand the sensitivity of sexual health issues, and we strive to provide comfort and quality care throughout your treatment. To schedule an appointment, you can fill out our secure online appointment request form or call our office at (206) 231-6000.
