What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes in men?
In general, men and women have similar symptoms of type 2 diabetes. These include excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, numbness or tingling of extremities, weight gain and fatigue.
In addition to these commonly discussed symptoms, another issue discussed less frequently is erectile dysfunction. In fact, a study showed a three-fold increase in erectile dysfunction in men with type 2 diabetes versus those without. This is thought to be due to damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the penis. This is a subject that many men are uncomfortable discussing, even with their doctor, but is an indicator of the need for diabetes. If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above or erectile dysfunction, we recommend speaking with your doctor to see if testing is indicated.
Learn more about the dietary changes required to reverse diabetes without increasing medication in Reversing Diabetes 101 by Dr. Sarah Hallberg.
Citations
- Feldman HA, Goldstein I, Hatzichristou DG, et al. Impotence and its medical and psychosocial correlates: results of the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. JBJ Urol. 1994 Jan; 151(1):54-61.
- Bays HE, Bazata DD, Clark NG, et al. Prevalence of self-reported diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and associated risk factors in a national survey in the US population: SHIELD (Study to Help Improve Early evaluation and management of risk factors Leading to Diabetes). BMC Public Health. 2007;7:277. Published 2007 Oct 3. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-7-277
