5 Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes in Men
Each article on the fitterfly website is a labor of love, reviewed by a team of certified medical experts specializing in various fields like Diabetology, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, Psychology.
They carefully examine all references and facts to provide up-to-date and reliable information, aiming to break myths and empower you in your health journey.
Meet Our Reviewing Team
Dr. Vidya Jaydeep Walinjkar
Dr. Vidya Walinjkar has 14 yrs of experience as a diabetologist and physician. She currently works as a Consulting Diabetologist and Program Consultant for Type 2 diabetes members at Fitterfly.
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Mard ko dard nahi hota!
Our society assumes that nothing can affect men, neither pain nor sorrow.
But THIS IS COMPLETELY WRONG. Nothing spares our dear men, not even Diabetes.
Diabetes is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide, but did you know the symptoms can differ between men and women? Understanding the specific signs of diabetes in men is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.
Worry not, we’ve got you covered. This blog post will guide you through the common and unique symptoms of diabetes in men, helping you recognize and address them promptly.
Before we move into the specific signs and symptoms of diabetes in men, let’s see the common signs and symptoms of diabetes in both men and women.
8 Common Symptoms of Diabetes in Men & Women
The classic symptoms of diabetes that are seen in both men and women include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night -One of the hallmark symptoms of diabetes in men is frequent urination. High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work overtime to filter and absorb excess glucose. When they can’t keep up, the excess glucose is excreted into the urine, dragging fluids from your tissues.
- Feeling very thirsty -This frequent urination triggers increased thirst as your body tries to replenish lost fluids.
- Losing weight when you’re not trying to
- Blurry vision
- Feeling tired – Another common symptom of diabetes in men is persistent fatigue. When your body can’t efficiently use glucose for energy, it turns to fat for fuel, which can leave you feeling exhausted and drained of energy.
- Numbness/tingling in hands and feet
- Getting infections often
- Cuts or sores take a long time to heal
In the beginning, you might not notice any signs at all as Type 2 diabetes signs in men can take a long time to show up, which makes it tricky to find out if you have it.
Now, let’s take a look at those signs & symptoms which are specifically seen in men only.
5 Unique Diabetes Symptoms in Men
1) Reduced Muscle Mass
Men experience loosening in muscle mass due to a lack of insulin, which decreases overall strength. This occurs because the body starts breaking down muscle tissue for energy when it can’t properly use glucose, a later-stage symptom of diabetes in men.
2) Foot Problems
Foot problems are commonly seen in men as compared to women due to damage to nerves or
blood vessels.
3) Yeast Infections
Men with diabetes may experience genital yeast infections. High sugar levels in urine and sweat can create a breeding ground for yeast, leading to infections. Eg, Jock itch, Candida, etc.
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4) Urinary Problems
Men with diabetes may face more urological problems, like
- Difficulty in urinating
- Frequent Night urination
- Not being able to urinate completely
5) Sexual & Reproductive Problems
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction is a frequent and often early sign of diabetes in men. High blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and nerve function in the penis, which results in difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection.
Low Testosterone Levels
Diabetes in men can also lead to low testosterone levels, affecting sexual desire and muscle mass. This hormonal imbalance can exacerbate other symptoms, making it vital to recognize and address.
Retrograde Ejaculation
A lesser-known sign of diabetes in men is retrograde ejaculation. This condition, where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation, can result from nerve damage caused by diabetes.
You can follow the below-mentioned preventive measures to prevent diabetes.
What are Serious Complications and When to Seek Help?
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition that can develop when blood sugar levels are dangerously high. Symptoms include fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. Immediate medical attention is crucial.
Cardiovascular Issues
Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Symptoms of a heart attack can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and sudden numbness, particularly on one side of the body. Recognizing these signs early can save lives.
7 Expert Tips to Prevent Diabetes
1) Routine Habits
- Ensure you eat and sleep at regular times.
- Take your medications as prescribed, without delay.
- Manage stress through healthy practices.
2) Dietary Changes
- Try to lose extra weight and check your BMI
- Focus on a diet rich in plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Include healthy protein, seeds and nuts, and avoid fad diet.
3) Improving Physique
- Include exercises like weight lifting in your routine to help build muscle. Focus on eating natural proteins such as fish, eggs, meat, and milk.
4) Physical Activity
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly to prevent diabetes.
5) Substance Use
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
6) Health Monitoring
- Regularly scheduled blood check-ups are essential for monitoring your health status.
7) Psychological Well-being
- Sexual and Reproductive Health – Talk openly with your doctor and your partner about any sexual health problems. Making healthy lifestyle changes and getting the right medical advice can help improve these issues.
- Sharing Health Concerns – Find people or groups you’re comfortable talking to about your diabetes.
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How We At Fitterfly Can Help You?
If you’re a man dealing with diabetes, know that you’re not alone. We understand that some of you may feel embarrassed to share your health issues but trust us, our experts are here to listen and assist you.
You can speak openly with us about your symptoms, especially those that may feel sensitive or embarrassing. We’re here to help, not to judge.
All you need to do is give us a missed call at 08069450746 or check out Fitterfly’s Diabetes Prime Program and choose according to your needs.
This blog provides general information for educational and informational purposes only and shouldn't be seen as professional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific signs and symptoms of diabetes in men?
Apart from typical symptoms of diabetes, men may experience unique symptoms like reduced strength from muscle loss, erectile dysfunction, and decreased libido.
What are the long-term complications of diabetes in men?
Long-term complications can include cardiovascular disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney damage (nephropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), and sexual dysfunction.
How is diabetes diagnosed in men?
Blood tests that measure blood sugar levels, including fasting blood glucose, A1C levels, and, in some cases, an oral glucose tolerance test are used to diagnose diabetes in men.
Can diabetes cause vision problems in men?
Yes, diabetes can cause vision problems in men. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition can progress to vision loss or blindness if not managed properly
What are the signs of advanced-stage diabetes in men?
Signs of advanced-stage diabetes in men include loss of muscle mass, Peyronie’s disease (curvature of the penis), vision problems, and kidney disease. These symptoms indicate severe and prolonged high blood sugar levels, which require immediate medical attention.
Are there any early warning signs of diabetes in men?
Early warning signs of diabetes in men include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and extreme hunger. Recognizing these early symptoms can lead to timely diagnosis and management
Can diabetes lead to weight loss in men?
Yes, unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of diabetes in men. When the body can't use glucose for energy, it starts breaking down muscle and fat for fuel, leading to weight loss
What are the long-term complications of untreated diabetes in men?
Long-term complications of untreated diabetes in men include cardiovascular disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney damage (nephropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), and an increased risk of infections. These complications can severely impact quality of life and may be life-threatening
Can lifestyle changes alone manage diabetes in men?
While lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and weight management are crucial for managing diabetes, they are often not enough on their own. Many men will also need medication or insulin therapy to control their blood sugar levels effectively
How does diabetes affect men's mental health?
Diabetes can impact men's mental health by increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress. The chronic nature of the condition and the need for constant management can take a toll on mental well-being. It's important to address these aspects with healthcare providers
What role does diet play in managing symptoms of diabetes in men?
Diet plays a crucial role in managing symptoms of diabetes in men. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and overall health
Can exercise help manage diabetes symptoms in men?
Yes, regular exercise can help manage diabetes symptoms in men by improving insulin sensitivity, helping with weight management, and reducing blood sugar levels. Activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, and strength training are beneficial
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