Dr. Robert Bruce Posner, M.D.

Diabetes, when not under good control, could most certainly cause lower energy levels and increase in sleepiness. Glucose is needed as an energy source for cells and when the glucose is remaining high in the bloodstream and not adequately be transported into the cells, the performance of cells, including those in the brain, will be adversely affected. The medications to treat diabetes may also cause side effects, including fatigue. Most Type 2 diabetics (these patients are insulin resistant) are overweight/obese and the weight control problem itself can lead to poor energy levels. The very best approach to diabetes and regaining energy is to lose weight if excessive weight is present.

There is often a delayed muscle reaction to traumatic injuries. Spasm of muscles and pain are likely to heighten 12-24 hours after the actual injury. It is not uncommon after a fall or a auto accident to not feel lots of pain initially, but the next day the pain is much more intense.

Infections produce natural body inflammatory responses and even if the infectious agent (bacterial vs. viral) is "gone", the inflammatory remnants may remain. OTC anti-histamines such as Zyrtec or Claritin plus a nasal steroid spray may help the inflammatory symptoms. At times, the inflammatory component is too intense, will not respond to OTCs and a visit to a doctor may result in a prescription for a short course oral steroid such as prednisone.

Lisinopril has actually been linked to an increase in sperm counts in males. Lisinopril is in the category of BP meds called "ACE Inhibitors" and as a class, these should be quite safe for males attempting to have a child.