Let us first talk about the 2 types of diabetes as they are not the same.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) also knows as juvenile diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that typically occurs in young children. In T1D the bodies immune system goes into overdrive and literally “kills” the pancreas causing it to no longer create insulin. Insulin is the key the unlocks the cell allowing glucose “sugar” created from hormones and when we eat to enter the cell feeding it. When there is not enough insulin in the body, these glucose molecules build up in the blood stream and begin to attach themselves to the organs of the body. Over time, this build of glucose on the organs cases them to not work properly or fail all together which can lead to significant health problems including death.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes with an estimated 34 million people suffering from the disease. Whereas T1D is the inability for the pancreas to make insulin, Type 2 is the bodies inability to regulate and use the glucose molecules appropriately. In a nutshell, there are two issues going on, the body is not making enough insulin to keep up with the demand and the cells do not respond correctly and do not take in enough glucose which they need. Just as T1D, the increase of glucose in the body can damage organs and cause significant health issues.

The signs and symptoms for both T1D and T2D are similar. They include; 

• Excessive thirst 
• Frequent urination 
• Unintended weight loss 
• Fatigue 
• Blurred vision 
• Frequent infections 
• Slow healing wounds

As mentioned, diabetes can take a toll on one’s body. In men specifically it can play a major role in men’s sexual health.

Erectile dysfunction is when a man cannot achieve or maintain an erection in order to have sexual intercourse. Men who have diabetes are at greater risk of developing erectile dysfunction due to the damage that can occur to the nerves and blood vessels when blood sugars are not maintained.

Retrograde ejaculation can also be caused by high blood sugars. When blood sugars are high, they cause nerve damage known as neuropathy. When these nerves are affected it can damage the genitals and bladder among other organs. This can then cause an issue where the man’s semen is mixed with their urine which can result in infertility.

Other sexual health negative affects of diabetes can include Peyronie’s disease and low testosterone. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is recommended you seek treatment.