For any man, it is one of the more humbling conversations he can have with his urologist: problems with sex. A urologist is exactly the person you should talk to about this issue – just as women see gynecologists about sexual issues, men see urologists.
The urologist will perform a physical exam and then ask a number of questions. These questions are to establish a baseline understanding of your own medical history, to check for tremendous stressors in your life, and to recount what happens when you have an episode of erectile dysfunction (ED).
Tests Used to Diagnose the Cause of ED
Many times, erectile dysfunction is a symptom or a side effect of another problem (such as diabetes) or may be due to a medication you’re taking. In addition to your answers to the doctor’s questions, there are tests that can be performed to narrow down where the root problem lies.
These tests can determine whether the ED is due to a vascular issue, nerve problem, psychological issue, or something else. These diagnostic tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – This is a blood test that can find anemia, which can cause fatigue and ED.
- Liver and Kidney Function Tests – These are used to measure whether your ED could be caused by the kidneys or liver not working properly. If not, this can be a factor in whether you develop ED.
- Lipid Profile – This is used to measure the levels of fat in the bloodstream. If there is too much fat in the blood, this can negatively affect blood flow and contribute to the development of ED.
- Thyroid Function Test – This tests the thyroid to see if it is properly producing a normal amount of sex hormones. A deficiency in these could be the precise cause of your ED.
- Duplex Ultrasound – This is used in men with ED to evaluate blood flow and to check for possible signs of any type of venous (vein) leakage, atherosclerosis, or scarring. The test is given once when erect and once when flaccid in order to conduct a full evaluation.
- Vasoactive Injection – During this test, the doctor will inject certain substances into the penis that cause vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels) and erection to determine how the mechanics work.
- Dynamic Infusion Cavernosometry – This test is to determine whether the man has a venous leak. The doctor will pump fluid into the penis at a preset rate. By measuring the rate at which the fluid must be pumped in order to attain an erection, the doctor can calculate the severity of the leak.
Trusted Urologist in Phoenix
If you have symptoms of ED, see an experienced urologist who will make the testing process as hassle-free and unawkward as possible. Dr. Desi Avila at Ironwood Urology conducts testing and performs treatments for men with urinary issues and sexual issues of all kinds.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Avila by calling us at (480) 961-2323 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. Don’t sit back and do nothing – you’re not alone, and there is treatment that works.
