Viagra Clinical Diagnosis
Any surgeries, prostate, kidney, bladder, pelvic, etc.. Any trauma to pelvic area, brain, or spine. Any treatment for cancer, chemotherapy or radiation. Your responses to the above questions will help determine whether or not you may have ED. If you have any doubt, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Seeking Medical Help It is important to recognize that some health professionals, including doctors and mental health professionals, may be more skilled than others at dealing with sexuality and erection problems, due to comfort level, experience, or both. It is suggested that you start with your personal physician, and seek a referral if appropriate. Typically, the most qualified and experienced medical professional to deal with physical causes of ED is a urologist. A urologist is a physician who has specialized knowledge and skill in the area of the male and female urinary tract and reproductive organs. Due to the variety of clinical problems encountered, knowledge of internal medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, and other specialties is required of the urologist. Urology is classified as a surgical subspecialty. A urologist with advanced qualifications in surgery may be a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Your physician may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist, or possibly a sex therapist, sex counselor, or even a social worker, if it is believed that the nature of your ED is psychological. Psychological problems causing erectile dysfunction are varied but most can be helped. Therapy often leads to improved function in other areas of life as well as in sexual function. Psychotherapists often like to work with both partners. Therapy, like other treatments, can be uncomfortable but worthwhile. If you have concerns about your referral, discuss them with your primary physician.
Clinical Diagnosis
It is important that you prepare yourself to openly discuss your sexual problems with your physician. Your visit(s) are likely to include the following: Full interview – the doctor is likely to ask you questions similar to those mentioned in the Self-Diagnosis section in order to get a thorough understanding of your sexual, medical, and psychological history. Physical examination – your doctor is likely to pay particular attention to your genitals, as well as your nervous, vascular, and urinary systems. A blood pressure check is also routine, but especially significant in ED diagnosis. It can reveal unsuspected diseases, including diabetes, vascular disease, penile scarring or plaque (Peyronie’s), testicular problems, low male hormone production, injury or disease to the penile nerves, and various prostate disorders. Laboratory testing can be extensive, and may include the following: o Blood Tests and Urinalysis – Blood tests can indicate conditions that may interfere with normal erectile function. These tests measure hormone levels, cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, and thyroid function. Excess prolactin (hyperprolactinemea) can lower testosterone levels, which can diminish libido. Both of these levels are measured, as well as levels of other sex hormones. If they are persistently low, an endocrinologist (hormone specialist) may be consulted. o CBC – Complete blood count (CBC) of red cells and white cells is used to evaluate the presence of anemia. A low level of red cells limits the body’s utilization of oxygen and can lead to fatigue and general malaise. The level of blood lipids (fats) such as cholesterol and triglycerides may indicate arteriosclerosis, which can reduce blood flow to the penis. o Liver and kidney function tests–Liver and kidney disease can create horomonal imbalances. Blood tests for liver function involve analysis of enzyme and serum creatinine levels, which are indicators of kidney efficiency. o Thyroid function tests–Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and the production of sex hormones; a deficiency may contribute to impotence.