Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the inability to maintain an erection. It is caused by nerve damage that hinders arterial blood flow and venous blood flow. Over 50% of men with diabetes have sexual troubles and it is usually within 10 years of their diabetes diagnosis. There are several physical causes of ED, mainly diabetes, medications and vascular disease. In addition, pelvic surgery, radiation, trauma and endocrine disease can cause ED. Why do men with diabetes get ED? As educators we know the irreversible damage to nerves, muscles and blood vessels diabetes and other comorbidities can cause. In men with diabetes, the risk for ED increases with age, diabetes duration, poor glycemic control, micro-vascular complications and cardiovascular disease. ED is a risk factor contributing to Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and Stroke. The severity of ED equal is proportionate with the severity of Heart Disease.
Why should we as educators discuss ED? We should assess for Erectile Dysfunction at every encounter. Men are often embarrassed, ashamed, or feel like they are the only person dealing with the issue of ED. Most men with diabetes don’t know there is a connection between ED and diabetes. We are in direct line of preventing the progression of nerve damage, ED, heart disease and reduce the likelihood of a deadly outcome. But first, are you comfortable talking about sex and ED with your patients? Can you be proactive in motivating the patient in changing his lifestyle? ED can negatively impact a man’s self-esteem and his relationship with his partner. Depression is common with both the patient and his partner. As educators, we need to discuss the importance of lifestyle changes, controlling blood sugars, maintaining blood pressure, eating healthy, exercising and kicking the smoking habit.