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Your sexual performance has a way of affecting your general health. A man who is unable to maintain penile erection for sexual intercourse would definitely not be comfortable with the situation. If you find yourself in such a health condition, it is best to seek help from a doctor or men’s health specialist.
One common sexual health problem faced by most men is Erectile Dysfunction (ED). This refers to the inability of a man to get or maintain a penile erection for sexual pleasure. Erectile Dysfunction is so common among men that about 30 million men in the United States are diagnosed with this condition.
Estimates from verified sources and experts suggest that one in every 10 men suffers ED at some point during his lifetime. This implies that erectile dysfunction can happen to any man, the age notwithstanding. But then, how do you know that you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction?
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis
Erectile Dysfunction diagnosis is a medical procedure that allows a doctor (urologist) to ascertain that you’re truly suffering from ED. The diagnosis process starts with you providing the doctor with detailed information regarding your past medical and sexual history. It also includes undergoing mental health and physical exam, as well as a series of medical tests (if necessary).
While not everyone would feel comfortable discussing their sex life with another person, it is important to remember that a healthy sex life plays a huge role in enjoying a healthy life. If you provide your doctor with clearer information about you, he’d be able to find the best treatment or therapy to alleviate your condition.
In some cases, your doctor may request to have some discussions with your current partner. You may also be tested for underlying illness, or if you have chronic health conditions, your doctor may put you through specific tests.
ED can result as a side effect from taking certain substances or medications, or associated with various medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, hypertension, high blood pressure, etc., all these would be checked to ascertain the actual reason why you’re experiencing difficulties in having or maintaining erections.
With a clear view of what caused your ED condition, your doctor can prescribe the best treatment for you. ED treatment is tailored; no two patients get the same treatment recommendation.
Common Tests For ED Diagnosis
Hereunder are some common tests you may need to undergo as part of your ED diagnosis procedure.
Blood test to check for blood-related illnesses that could cause ED (E.g. High BP, Diabetes, etc.).
Physical exam to check if your penis can be stimulated physically.
Urine tests (urinalysis) to look for possible underlying illnesses
Ultrasound (if necessary)
Psychological exam to check your mood.
Nocturnal erection test and injection test.
Why is Erectile Dysfunction Common?
Although old age is mentioned as one of the causes of ED, the truth is that ED is not considered normal at any age. Even men above 60 years of age can still have erection normally and enjoy satisfactory sex. But then, ED is common among men because it is associated with different physical, emotional, and mental conditions.
Most of the time, ED does not require medical treatment – you just have to restrain yourself from taking certain substances or drugs, and it’d go away. Also, your current mood could be the reason why you’re unable to get or maintain a penile erection, so, getting out of sad moods and depression is means to cure ED.