What Causes Impotence With Diabetes?

Diabetes is a devastating illness that can affect many other body systems and functions. For men, one of the most distressing effects can be impotence. Even though a diabetic man might have normal hormones and sexual desires, his disease might prevent him from getting an erection and performing intercourse. Knowing the causes of diabetic impotence can help a man understand what is happening and how to treat it.

Definition

Impotence is a condition in which a man cannot achieve an erection or cannot maintain one. It can also refer to an inconsistent ability to get an erection or a lack of firmness.

Prevalence

According to WebMD, between 35 and 75 percent of men with diabetes will experience some degree of impotence at some point. The chances increase with age; after age 50, an average of 60 percent of diabetic men will have erectile dysfunction, and the number shoots up to 95 percent after age 70.

Causes

Diabetes causes problems with a person's nerves, blood vessels and muscle function. Damaged nerves and blood vessels can restrict blood flow and interfere with a diabetic man's ability to get and maintain a firm erection.

Treatment

Impotence in diabetic men can be treated with medications like Viagra, Cilais or Levitra. Other options include intracavernous injection therapy, intraurethral therapy, vacuum constriction devices, or counseling with a sex therapist.

Warning

Many men with diabetes may also have heart problems which can make the use of drugs like Viagra, Cilais or Levitra dangerous. These drugs can interact with heart medications.