Several studies have shown that erectile dysfunction is experienced by approximately 20-85% of individuals with diabetes. This is certainly a significant number. One study in Semarang indicated that 84.4% of male diabetes patients experience erectile dysfunction. Most of them are over 46 years old, experience job-related stress, have low physical activity, are overweight, smoke, have had diabetes for more than 5 years, and have high blood pressure.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a condition characterized by excess sugar levels in the blood, which can lead to complications such as chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, is one of the biggest fears experienced by men. Erectile dysfunction is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that is often overlooked. However, erectile dysfunction in diabetes patients serves as an indicator of poor blood sugar control and also indicates the presence of microvascular disorders. Such complications, coupled with strict therapy management, create psychological pressure on patients, affecting their quality of life in the health field.

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetes Patients:

Those who experience erectile dysfunction may exhibit several symptoms, including:

• Decreased or loss of desire for intimacy.

• Erectile dysfunction characterized by a man's difficulty in maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse.

• Experiencing orgasm disorders. Unlike women, men may experience premature ejaculation. This condition is known as premature ejaculation. Men can also have the opposite condition.

Experiencing difficulties during sexual intercourse is actually normal if it only occurs occasionally. However, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of experiencing sexual dysfunction. Therefore, individuals with diabetes need to undergo regular check-ups to prevent complications, including erectile dysfunction.

The primary approach to addressing erectile dysfunction in diabetes patients is good blood sugar control, which includes managing dietary patterns, engaging in regular physical activity, using anti-diabetic medications as prescribed by a doctor, and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels. Additionally, for those with excess body weight or obesity, they should strive to reach their ideal body weight. For smokers, quitting smoking is a must, as the substances in cigarette smoke can also damage blood vessels in the genitals, disrupting blood flow and exacerbating erectile dysfunction.

Diabetes patients should also pay attention to their vitamin C intake. Vitamin C can help control blood sugar levels and regulate cholesterol levels in diabetes patients. Therefore, make sure that vitamin C intake is well-maintained.

Source:

https://www.herminahospitals.com/id/

https://yankes.kemkes.go.id/view_artikel/947/gangguan-ereksi-pada-penyandang-kencing-manis

Author: Dr. Melinda Rambing Kong (Medical Laboratory Consultant Doctor at PRAMITA Clinic Jl. Garuda No. 79 Ruko 4-5 Mahakeret Barat, Manado)