Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis

Erectile Dysfunction is a common problem for many men. If a patient has an occasional occurrence of erectile dysfunction, the problem may be stress related. It is also true that takes longer with age. If however, the patient has a severe and persistent problem getting and maintaining an erection, they should consult a doctor. A doctor can perform erectile dysfunction diagnosis through a number of tests. 

Diagnosing erectile dysfunction can be done by measuring blood flow to the penile tissue. Before embarking on expensive tests, the doctor will take a complete medical history. A medical exam can determine if a neurological or vascular disease is responsible for the dysfunction. A history of smoking or hypertension can be determined during an exam. Blood testing can determine if liver and kidney function are normal, and if blood sugar is within the normal range. Blood testing can also determine if there is an excess of prolactin (hyperprolactinemea), which can lower testosterone and affect libido. Blood testing can also check the levels of other sex hormones. A complete blood count (CBC) will be taken determine the levels of white and red blood cells. Levels of fats like cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood may indicate arteriosclerosis, which can lead to inadequate blood flow to the penis. A urine sample may be taken to determine if diabetes, kidney dysfunction or insufficient levels of testosterone.

Other tests that can be used in diagnosing erectile dysfunction include a digital rectal exam to determine if the prostate is enlarged. An enlarged prostate can interfere with nerve impulses to the penis and can inhibit blood flow to the penile tissue. The bulbocavernosus reflex exam can be performed to determine if there is sufficient nerve response in the penis. This exam involves the physician squeezing the glans (head) of the penis. If nerve function is normal, the anus will immediately contract. The doctor determines the correlation between the squeeze and contraction by either feeling it with a gloved finger or observing it.

Penile response can also be observed during sleep with a test of nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT). The average person achieves between five and six erections during the night, especially while in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. The test can observe and either gauge strain or snap. The test which is used to gauge strain involves placing bands on the tip and base of the penis. During the night, the circumference of the penis is measured at both bands at various times. The snap gauge test involves placing several bands of varying strength around the penis. Erectile function is determined by the breaking of the bands. 

Other tests, including contrast dye x-rays and ultrasound can be useful in diagnosing erectile dysfunction. Once a positive diagnosis of erectile dysfunction has been made, your doctor can discuss options with you.

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