Erectile dysfunction is a condition that affects thousands of men all over the world. Aside from poor sexual performance, the condition may eventually contribute to feelings of anxiety and embarrassment. Erectile dysfunction can be remedied however.
Physical Examination and Interview
The doctor can order a number of tests to positively identify the existence of this condition. An interview is crucial for the doctor to know about past medical history, medications taken and currently being taken since there are medications that can also cause erectile dysfunction. The doctor will also inquire about stressful experiences, cases of insomnia and the specific circumstances that led to the symptoms.
Diagnosis
The doctor will order a number of diagnostic tests such as a CBC or a complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, lipid profiles and even thyroid function tests. A CBC can be effective in ruling out anemia as a cause of ED and can be easily detected using a regular CBC. Liver function tests may also show improper kidney or liver function which can be causing the ED. Lipid profiles can determine the presence of atherosclerosis which a condition where the blood vessels harden and obstruct normal blood circulation to the penis.
Other diagnostic exams that can be ordered by the doctor include blood hormone studies, ultrasound and nocturnal penile tumescence, which looks for normal nerve function of the penis. This is done by measuring the frequency of erections while a person is asleep. A man has about 6 erections while asleep and any fewer than this during an entire sleeping cycle can be a symptom of ED.
The results for these tests along with information gathered during the physical information and interview will help paint a complete picture of the possible causes of ED in a person. For more information on this condition and related tests and treatment, visit St. Pete Urology.