What is likely to happen when talking to your doctor.
This section gives you a hint on what to expect when you discuss the problem of ED (erectile dysfunction) with doctor.
Medical History
Your physician will study your medical history to determine the possible causes of ED. ED often results from certain health conditions, especially such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Those who were subjected to surgical or radiation treatment in the prostate or rectal area also have a higher risk of developing ED. It can also be caused by the action of certain medications as a side-effect.
Because lifestyle strongly affects sexual health, your physician is likely to ask you about things like smoking, drinking or using street drugs.
Questions Your Physician is Likely to Ask
You better determine the final diagnosis you physician is likely to ask you a set of question regarding your sexual activity and problems connected with it. Keep in mind that the more your physician knows, the better it is for you, because it will be easier for him or her to determine the right type of treatment for your situation.
All of the information obtained through these questions is related to ED and possible causes of ED. However, you are free to ask your doctor if any question concerns you or you feel it's inappropriate in the situation.
Expect your physician to ask you the following question:
- What concerns you? Obtaining an erection, maintaining it, or having it firm?
- When did you feel the change? Was it a sudden or a gradual process?
- How frequently does the problem occur?
- Have you experienced any problems with erection in the past?
- Do you have sleep time erections?
- Do you have early morning erections?
- How strong is your sexual drive right now? Earlier?
- Do you experience much stress, nervousness or anxiety about anything?
- Do you have energy? Any problems with sleeping? Sad feelings?
Physical Exam
If you have come to your doctor for a routine yearly checkup, you will most probably have a physical exam. The exam will also help you identify the possible causes of ED.
The exam for possible ED causes is likely to include:
- Checking blood pressure and blood flow, pulses in wrists and ankles
- Checking obvious hormone imbalance signs — testicles and thyroid gland sizes
- Checking prostate size
Lab Tests
Your physician can also indicate special lab tests to clearly identify the causes of your ED. These tests include:
Blood test
A blood test identifies:
- Testosterone (male hormone) levels
- Blood sugar levels, which can indicate the presence of diabetes
- Cholesterol and lipid levels, which affect the integrity of blood vessels
- Thyroid hormone levels
Urine test
A urine test is used to determine sugar levels in the urine, which can also be a symptom of diabetes.
Sometimes, a family doctor will refer a person to a specialist, such as a urologist, to deeper investigate the problem. Still, the treatment usually starts before the additional tests are undertaken. |
