How Is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?

Recognize the Symptoms

The first step in diagnosing erectile dysfunction is for a man to recognize that his problems are more serious and more consistent than the occasional difficulty performing sexually. Nearly everyone experiences impotence at some point or another, but if you consistently are unable to achieve erection and maintain it for a long enough time to climax during sex, you have erectile dysfunction.

Get a Medical Exam

Next, a doctor will try to rule out any physical causes of impotence, including health conditions that may cause erectile dysfunction. This can include high blood pressure, diabetes, nerve damage and more. He'll perform a physical examination, perform some blood and urine tests, and perhaps perform a neurological examination to see if there is a treatable condition causing the erectile dysfunction. He'll also take a personal medical history to see if there are any links there that can help diagnose the problem (could be an injury or substance abuse that could contribute to ED).

Answer Questions About Emotional Health

If your emotional health is suffering, that could be behind your erectile dysfunction. Men who are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression or fears about sexual intimacy can lead to erectile dysfunction. Your doctor will spend some time asking about what's going on in your life at work, home and in your relationship to help diagnose erectile dysfunction caused by poor emotional health.