What Tests are Done to Diagnose ED?

If you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction, talking with your doctor is the first step to treatment.

You’ve likely heard about medications like Cialis, a simple oral medication that you take as needed to treat erectile dysfunction.

Medications like this have a high success rate for most men, but a doctor must prescribe them.

If you’re headed to the doctor to talk about ED, you’re probably wondering what the visit will be like. Here’s what you can expect at your visit, and what tests will be done:

Discuss your problems and history

Your doctor will ask questions about the problems you’re experiencing. You’ll also talk about your medical history, past surgeries and medications that you’re currently taking.

Physical exam

Your doctor will do a quick workup, listen to your lungs and heart, take your blood pressure and check your penis for any visible problems. At this point, your doctor may have enough information to diagnose erectile dysfunction.

Blood and urine tests

ED is often a condition that’s associated with other medical problems, so your doctor might want to do a blood and urine test to look for the cause of erectile dysfunction. Diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and low testosterone can all be checked with these simple tests.

Ultrasound

To check the blood flow in your penis, your doctor may do an ultrasound. It’s a painless procedure that involves moving a small wand around the penis to see what’s going on inside.

Psychological questions

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by psychological problems too. Something as simple as stress at work can cause ED, but typically doctors are looking for more serious conditions like depression. By asking a few questions, a doctor will access your mental well-being.

If you’re dealing with ED, knowing what to expect at the doctor’s office is helpful. The process to diagnose ED is painless and can result in a simple prescription to help you reclaim your sex life.