Sexual and Urologic Problems of Diabetes (cont.)

Risk factors are conditions that increase the chances of getting a particular disease. The more risk factors people have, the greater their chances of developing that disease or condition. Diabetic neuropathy and related sexual and urologic problems appear to be more common in people who

• have poor blood glucose control
• have high levels of blood cholesterol
• have high blood pressure
• are overweight
• are older than 40
• smoke
• are physically inactive

People with diabetes can lower their risk of sexual and urologic problems by keeping their blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels close to the target numbers their health care provider recommends. Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can also help prevent the long-term complications of diabetes. For those who smoke, quitting will lower the risk of developing sexual and urologic problems due to nerve damage and also lower the risk for other health problems related to diabetes, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

The nerve damage of diabetes may cause sexual or urologic problems.

• Sexual problems for men with diabetes include
  • erectile dysfunction
  • retrograde ejaculation
• Sexual problems for women with diabetes include
  • decreased vaginal lubrication and uncomfortable or painful intercourse
  • decreased or no sexual desire
  • decreased or absent sexual response
• Urologic problems for men and women with diabetes include
  • bladder problems related to nerve damage, such as overactive bladder, poor control of sphincter muscles, and urine retention
  • urinary tract infections
• Controlling diabetes through diet and exercise can help prevent sexual and urologic problems.
• Treatment is available for sexual and urologic problems.

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/sexual_and_urologic_problems_of_diabetes/article.htm