For men living with diabetes, diabetic impotence can be one of the more difficult side effects to endure. Unfortunately, studies have shown that men with diabetes have an increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction. People with diabetes possess high levels of blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels and nerves in the body. In a man’s body, when blood vessels are damaged, nitric oxide is not released, causing blood vessels to be constricted and ultimately reducing blood flow to the penis, preventing an erection.

Other causes of diabetic impotence include high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which are common problems for men with diabetes. High blood pressure may damage blood vessels, decreasing blood flow to the penis. High cholesterol can prevent blood vessels from dilating properly, also preventing circulating of blood to the area.

It’s not just lack of proper blood flow that causes erectile dysfunction in diabetics. …