The Impact of Diabetes on Erectile Dysfunction: Pathophysiology and Management Strategies

Background:Having diabetes mellitus seriously increases the risk for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. Locally raised blood sugar levels over a long period are responsible for losing nerve function in the penis and hormone imbalance which eventually lead to ED. Analyzing this relationship helps doctors work better with diabetic patients. Objectives:We need to look at the rates, key functions behind and proven effects of current therapies for erectile dysfunction in men with diabetes. Study design: A prospective study. Place and duration of study: Department of Urology Niazi Medical College Sargodha from jan 2022 to jan 2023 Methods:The study used a prospective protocol to look at 100 men with diabetes who were experiencing ED in Department of Urology Niazi Medical College Sargodha from jan 2022 to jan 2023. During evaluation, a history was taken, a physical examination was carried out and tests for fasting glucose, HbA1c and serum testosterone were made. The performance of erectile function was evaluated using the IIEF questionnaire. All data analysis was performed in SPSS version 25 and only results with p<0.05 were considered significant. Results:100 patients whose average age was 54.2 years with a range of 9.1 years. Patients had been living with diabetes for about 8.5 years on average. Of those who took part, 72% had moderate or severe erectile dysfunction. Poor glycemic control (HbA1c level higher than 7.5%) was strongly related to the seriousness of ED (p=0.003). Severe ED was associated with lower testosterone levels (mean 280 ng/dL) compared to those with mild ED (mean 410 ng/dL), p=0.01. Conclusion:The risk of erectile dysfunction is much higher for diabetics, linked to less-than-ideal control of blood sugar and low testosterone. Right away, doctors should use a complete treatment plan that includes choosing the right dose of sugars, hormonal therapy and PDE5 inhibitors to improve both sex life and quality of life for men with diabetes..