How is erectile dysfunction diagnosed? It is typically done through the process of elimination. There are so many factors involved in getting and maintaining an erection firm enough to have sexual relations, your doctor will test one possibility at a time to finally reach the real cause. Only then can proper treatment be provided.
Process of Elimination
When there is difficulty getting and/or keeping an erection long enough for sex, the suspect is erectile dysfunction. When everything is working right, erections can come and go without a thought. You never think about everything that has to go “right” to get and keep one.
There happen to be multiple parts of your body and mind that have to be in sync. With occasional ED or if it becomes more common, suddenly you need to become aware of “what parts” need to be in sync. Contacting our board-certified urologists for an appointment in Lafayette, LA is your first step toward getting the answers.
The causes of ED can be due to physical issues, mental/psychological issues, or emotional problems.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: The Physical Test
Your urologist will begin by taking your medical history and asking lots of questions.
Blood tests and a physical exam will indicate any physical issues that can cause ED like the following:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Kidney disease
- Low testosterone
Any of these can contribute to erectile dysfunction. If one or more is identified, Southern Urology may begin treating those particular issues. Several of these physical problems can affect blood flow throughout your body. This, in turn, can be a significant cause of ED.
Our urologists may do several tests to learn more about your healthy blood flow.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Emotional and Mental Issues
Depression, stress, and anxiety can contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Southern Urology will discuss these issues with you and give a psychological screening test for depression.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Other Risk Factors
Smoking, drinking to excess, lack of exercise, and use of recreational drugs can also contribute to ED. Being over the age of 50 can be a contributing factor, but men in their 80s can still have a satisfactory sex life.
There may not be only one cause of ED, but a combination of factors.
Getting a thorough evaluation from a urologist like our board-certified urologists in Lafayette, LA will help pinpoint the cause and provide direction on which treatment option is best for you.
Schedule an Erectile Dysfunction Appointment in Lafayette, LA
Contact Southern Urology at (337) 233-6665 to schedule an appointment for tests and treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
ED Tests: (Blood, Rigidity) Used By Urologists to Diagnose Erectile Dysfunction (webmd.com)
Erectile dysfunction – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
