Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction

Reading time: 3 min

In the light of an erection problem, the most important point is to understand its cause. If you have experienced erectile dysfunction for longer than six months, then you should talk to a medical specialist.

Standing doctor pointing at a notepad with a clinical history

Medical history. In order to detect the cause, the doctor needs to know when the problems with erections or sexual desire began, if there are any injuries which could cause the dysfunction and if the patient has recently experienced any physical or emotional changes. The specialist also needs to know what medications you are taking, if any.

Form with ticked boxes in a folder

Symptoms questionnaire. The diagnosis of erectile dysfunction is based on a questionnaire that the patient completes alone, without the doctor being present. The most typical questionnaire is the IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function-5).

Stethoscope

Physical examination. The assessment may include a physical examination and analytical tests to determine the testosterone levels in your blood. Depending on the results, the specialist may also request the analysis of other hormones, cholesterol or glucose levels as well as tests to determine the degrees of liver, kidney and thyroid function. Although it is not very common, some patients require special tests to assess their neurological function, blood vessels and circulation.

What age is erectile dysfunction most common?

Substantiated information by:

Ascensión Gómez Porcel
Eduardo García Cruz

Published: 20 February 2018
Updated: 20 February 2018

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