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The Question
04/21/09 06:04 PM

"I scored for low testerone. My Dr. put me on a month long prescription of Androderm. My question is whether low testerone is related to diabetes?"
Asked By: mrbengrim  
Category: Men's Issues

Background Info Hide
I am 42 years old. Im overweight, but I am dieting (it's been slow process to lose weight). And I have been having troulbe getting and maintaining erections.

Expert Answers (1)

10/15/09 08:21 PM

Hello MrBengrim: Diabetes has a reputation of impacting the whole body, from head to toe, and all other areas in-between, especially the tiny micro-(small) vascular (veins) areas. Most discuss the eyes, however, approx. 50%+ of men experience the issues you mention, impotence means that the penis does not become or stay hard enough for sex. There can be many causes and a conversation with your PCP/Urologist/Endocrinologist, may offer insight for treatment choices.

The most common causes of impotence in men with diabetes are:

  • damage to nerves in the penis
  • damage to the blood vessels in the penis
  • or poor control over the glucose levels.

    Problems can fall into 2 general areas :

  • physical or
  • psychological causes. To address the physical causes :
  • if the blood glucose levels are running high>140mg/dl, getting under control can help, to reduce other risk factors: if you smoke-stop, decrease alcohol intake, and keep the blood pressure<130/80mmHg.
    In rare cases, impotence can be causes by continued low testosterone levels.

    Some medications, even over-the counter remedies can cause problems. i.e. some for high BP, anxiety, depression and peptic ulcers.

    When you are stressed, worried, or anxious, (fear of impotence), all this takes a toll and assistance from a therapist may help with dealing with the sexual issues.
    Be your best:

  • A1c<7%
  • BP<130/80mm/Hg
  • Total cholesterol<200,HDL>40,LDL<100,Tgs<150mg/dl
  • activity to 150 min/wk per MD OK. Thanks for aksing dLife, hope this helps. Regards
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

    Community Answers (0)

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    *** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

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