By now, many of you must have started thinking what does erectile dysfunction have to do with diabetes. It is a little known fact that erectile dysfunction is a common complication of diabetes. You will be surprised by the fact that in most cases, diabetes has been the leading cause of erectile dysfunction. The risk of developing erectile dysfunction is reduced to a considerable extent by simply treating your diabetes.

It has been observed that people suffering from erectile dysfunction often feel embarrassed in discussing their problem with doctors. It is a common belief that erectile dysfunction is very rare, however, this is just a misconception. Eighty out of 100 men with diabetes develop erectile dysfunction. Whereas 22% of the males who don’t have diabetes are known to have this disorder. You can delay or prevent this dysfunction altogether by consulting your doctor before a problem occurs.

It is a very common myth that only older men have erectile dysfunction. Although, it is a fact that erectile dysfunction most frequently develops after the age of 65 years, but this does not imply that you cannot have it if you are young. As already stated, the risk of developing erectile dysfunction increases greatly if a person is diabetic, and diabetes tends to occur in men after the age of 40 years. In fact, even men in their 30s are known to have erectile dysfunction. So, if you observe any of the symptoms of ED, it’s better to seek the advice of your doctor rather than just thinking that it can’t happen to you.

Blood sugar is another contributing factor in the development of erectile dysfunction. High level of blood sugar can lead to nerve and blood vessel complications which eventually results in disorders like erectile dysfunction. Learn the methods for controlling your blood sugar. The most effective way to do so is to avoid food products which are high in carbohydrates.

Blood vessels get narrowed because of smoking and other tobacco uses. This contributes to blockages which lead to erectile dysfunction. Smoking also leads to several other complications, so if you have been thinking of quitting smoking, then this is the time. As far as the consumption of alcohol is concerned, it does not pose any direct threat in this case. However, heavy drinking can cause nerve damage, liver damage, interfere with normal balance of male sex hormone levels, and all these things can lead to erectile dysfunction.

The blood vessels get damaged because of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. The blood vessels which bring blood to the penis are also damaged which eventually lead to erectile dysfunction. If you want to prevent ED, then you need to make sure that your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are monitored at regular intervals. If your cholesterol level or blood pressure is more than what it needs to be, then get it treated.

Make some healthy lifestyle changes and choices. For instance, if you are overweight, then shed those extra pounds as it can bring many health problems such as diabetes which leads erectile dysfunction. Increase your daily physical activity, also you don’t have to get involved in any type of intense training programs, some light exercise, such as a 20 minutes walk, is sufficient to stay healthy.

Explore other options, such as surgical, medical and other therapeutic interventions if you are dissatisfied with the results of healthy living, lifestyle changes and psychotherapy. You can consider using oral treatments or injections for treating erectile dysfunction. The response to sexual stimulation is improved with the help of oral treatments like Viagra.

Finally, you need to be honest with your partner. Engage your partner in a frank discussion about what you are going through. You are more likely to prevent the detrimental effects of erectile dysfunction if you are have information about the condition and are honest with yourself and your partner.