by Carrie Belt

Created on: June 09, 2009

Many diabetics suffer from a sometimes embarrassing situation called "erectile dysfunction." This condition is caused when the sexual organs do not get an appropriate amount of blood flow, causing nerve damage and muscle weakness. Because many individuals are embarrassed to discuss their erectile dysfunction with a doctor, it is a condition that often goes untreated. However, it is estimated that erectile dysfunction affects between 35 and 75 percent of men with diabetes.

Moreover, while erectile dysfunction is reported to affect 15-30 million American men, diabetic men tend to experience erectile dysfunction about 10-15 years before non-diabetic men, according to TypeFree - an online resource for information about diabetes.

The good news is that erectile dysfunction is not a permanent condition. Many men experience it at some point in their lives, but many do not experience erectile dysfunction as a chronic condition. Erectile dysfunction is also treatable.

Treatments for erectile dysfunction

There are several popular medications on the market that are designed specifically to treat erectile dysfunction, including Viagra and Cialis. However, these medications are often associated with irregular heartbeats, so many diabetics should not take them - or they should consult with their doctor's before beginning a new medication.

Some men experiencing erectile dysfunction opt for a surgical treatment. Surgery may be an appropriate solution for a variety of reasons, including the implantation of a prosthetic penis, which will help an erection grow and stay firm; to unclog blocked arteries to and within the penis; to create a block in arteries that may be allowing blood to flow backwards into the body during an erection.

A final method of treating erectile dysfunction involves a vacuum pump, which sucks blood into the penis to create an erection. After an erection is created, a rubber band should be placed at the base of the penis to keep any blood and fluids from flowing back into the body.

Exercise may also help many men to improve their overall circulatory system. As blood flows more freely throughout the body, men may see some improvement in their ability to develop and sustain erections and overall sexual performance.

Remember: millions of men experience erectile dysfunction. There are treatments available, so feel free to speak openly with your doctor about your concerns and needs. You may be surprised by how effective some treatments and lifestyle modifications can be in helping to treat erectile dysfunction amongst diabetics. It's worth investigating with a trusted doctor!

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