Men and Diabetes

Men are at a higher risk of developing diabetes at a lower weight than women, which can lead to an array of dangerous health complications. Here's what you should know when it comes to men's health and lowering your risk.

Signs and Symptoms in Men

Diabetes primarily damages the body’s blood vessels and nerves. While many of the effects of this condition are the same for both men and women, there are some that are unique to males.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

One of the most common male-centric symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes in men is erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection that is firm enough for sex. According to the Boston University Medical Center, about half of men diagnosed with type 2 diabetes will develop erectile dysfunction within 10 years of having the condition. Diabetes can cause small vessel disease and even damage the nerves in the penis.

Genital Thrush

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels. High blood sugar levels are also the primary cause of gentile thrush. This fungal yeast infection occurs when excess blood sugar is passed through the urine—and yeast feeds and thrives on sugar. This makes gentile thrush a common occurrence on the penis for men living with diabetes.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Swellings
• Unpleasant odor
• Lumpy appearance to the skin
• Discomfort during sex

Other Signs and Symptoms

Nerve damage from diabetes can cause the following issues for men:

• Overactive bladder
• Male incontinence (leaking urine)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Retrograde ejaculation (semen that is released into the bladder)

If you suspect that you may have type 2 diabetes, speak with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and who you can properly treat them.

Primary and Specialty Care in Henry County

At Henry County Hospital, we’ve been providing compassionate healthcare since 1919. When it comes to primary and specialty care, each patient can expect individualized care that meets their needs. From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness.