Type 2 diabetes can be a 'devastating diagnosis' says expert
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Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. High blood sugar can also cause diabetic neuropathy which may cause sexual symptoms.
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage associated with diabetes and can cause sexual issues.
Symptoms include numbness, pain, or lack of feeling in the genitals.
This can lead to erectile dysfunction.
Neuropathy may also inhibit orgasm or make it difficult to feel sexual stimulation.
These side effects can make sex painful or unenjoyable.
The pain associated with diabetic neuropathy may be mild at first, but it can get worse over time and spread up your legs or arms.
Nerve damage from diabetes can’t be reversed.
This is because the body can’t naturally repair nerve tissues that have been damaged.
However, researchers are investigating methods to treat nerve damage caused by diabetes.
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Sexual symptoms found in women
High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage throughout the body, said Medical News Today.
The site added: “In women, this can affect the ability to experience sexual stimulation and arousal or the release of vaginal lubricant.
“These changes may result in painful sex and a reduced ability to experience an orgasm.
“During menopause a woman with diabetes may experience sudden drops in her blood sugar levels.
“This may affect her sexual health because she might experience symptoms of low blood sugar during sex and may make sex seem more of an inconvenience than a pleasure.”
Sexual symptoms found in men
Studies show that men with diabetes often have reduced testosterone levels, which can affect their sex drive.
However, the main sexual health problem affecting men with diabetes is an inability to achieve or maintain an erection, known as erectile dysfunction.
For a man to achieve an erection, there must be significant blood flow to the penis. However, diabetes damages the blood vessels, which can affect blood flow to the penis.
Diabetes can also lead to nerve damage and make it more difficult for him to maintain an erection.
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is vital in preventing the nerve damage that can cause problems, including for a person’s sexual health.
Ways of managing blood sugar levels include using insulin, taking medications, and checking blood glucose levels regularly.
Diet is also key when it comes to managing blood sugar levels with experts recommending a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
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