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Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction One of the most common problems related to diabetes is erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is a consistent inability to have an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Men who have diabetes are three times more likely to have erectile dysfunction as men who do not have diabetes. Studies show that 35% to 75% of men with diabetes will develop some degree of erectile dysfunction. High blood sugar, which must be managed carefully if you have diabetes, causes blood vessel and nerve damage that affects sexual responses. Damage to the blood vessels blocks the release of nitric oxide. A lack of nitric oxide causes erective dysfunction because it results in constricted blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the penis. Having high blood pressure also increases your risk of erective dysfunction. The combination of high blood pressure and diabetes also increases the risk for blood vessel damage, further reducing blood flow. High cholesterol is also common in people with diabetes. LDL cholesterol, can interfere with the ability of blood vessels to dilate. High cholesterol levels result in fatty deposits in artery walls. This buildup of fatty deposit can reduce blood flow to the penis. Combat erectile dysfunction By living a healthy lifestyle and working with your doctor, you can get your diabetes under control and treat erectile dysfunction if it becomes a problem for you. Some of the most common treatments for erectile dysfunction are: psychotherapy, drug therapy, vacuum devices, and surgery to repair damaged nerves.
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