Diabetes symptoms in men
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Diabetes Symptoms in Men
Common Symptoms of Diabetes in Men
Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia Symptoms
Diabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), but men with diabetes can also experience episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Common symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, increased thirst, and fatigue. Hypoglycemia symptoms, which can occur due to insulin treatment, include sweating, hunger, tremor, and a fast heart rate. These symptoms are often early warning signs that depend on the release of adrenaline-like hormones.
Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction is a significant complication of diabetes in men. This includes erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction, and loss of libido. These issues arise due to both microvascular and nerve damage as well as psychological factors. Tight glycemic control can help delay the onset of these problems and improve them when present. Treatments often involve phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and testosterone replacement therapy for those with low testosterone levels.
Hypogonadism
Hypogonadism, or low testosterone levels, is common in men with type 2 diabetes. Symptoms include reduced libido, fatigue, and depression. Studies show that a significant proportion of diabetic men have low testosterone levels, which are negatively correlated with obesity and waist circumference. Testosterone therapy has been shown to improve glycemic control and prevent the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes .
Cognitive Impairment
Older men with diabetes are at a higher risk of severe cognitive impairment during hypoglycemia. This is because the protective responses against low blood sugar, such as the release of adrenaline-like hormones and the onset of warning symptoms, are less effective in older men. This can lead to more severe cognitive dysfunction without prior warning, increasing the risk of serious hypoglycemic events.
Depression and Psychological Symptoms
Depressive symptoms are also linked to diabetes in men. Persistent depressive symptoms are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Lower levels of endogenous testosterone and higher levels of inflammation markers like interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein are also linked to both depression and diabetes. Managing these psychological symptoms is crucial for overall diabetes management.
Conclusion
Men with diabetes experience a range of symptoms that affect their physical and psychological health. These include hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia symptoms, sexual dysfunction, hypogonadism, cognitive impairment, and depression. Effective management of diabetes in men requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both glycemic control and these associated symptoms to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic