Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition, mostly affecting older men and about 50% of men between 40 – 70 years have experienced erectile issues. Erectile dysfunction can result from several reasons, both psychological and physical.

A GP can investigate a likely cause for erectile dysfunction, such as nervous or circulatory system conditions or poorly managed or undiagnosed diabetes. Erectile dysfunction may also result from situations such as having and sustaining an erection whilst masturbating, but having trouble getting an erection with a sexual partner.

Initial investigations for erectile dysfunction usually check the patient’s symptoms, medical history and medication. However, a specific erectile dysfunction blood test profile is available at Medical Express Clinic for a more detailed analysis.

Causes and symptoms

Several conditions can contribute to erectile dysfunction, but the most serious are heart disease and diabetes. About 25% of men in their thirties with diabetes experience erectile dysfunction, and it is responsible for 75% of ED cases in men in their 60s.

Other causes of ED include:

• Smoking cigarettes
• Atherosclerosis – constriction of blood flow in the arteries
• Side effects of some medication – if you are taking a new medication and notice erectile dysfunction-related symptoms, your doctor may review the prescription and recommend a different medication
• Fluctuations in hormone levels – if you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, your doctor may recommend hormone screening
• Drinking alcohol

The causes of erectile dysfunction are classed as psychological or physical.

The physical causes include:

• Medications
• Hormonal imbalances
• Neurological issues
• Lifestyle factors
• Vascular problems

Psychological causes include:

• Anxiety and stress
• Depression
• Relationship problems
• Performance anxiety

Test for erectile dysfunction – erectile dysfunction profile

• Glucose
• Lipid profile
• TSH
• PSA
• Free testosterone
• Total testosterone
• Prolactin
• HbA1c

Treatment for erectile dysfunction

Visiting a doctor for erectile dysfunction treatment, particularly if this issue has occurred for several weeks. This is important because erectile dysfunction may indicate a more serious health issue, like heart disease.

Medical Express Clinic provides private, discrete, and fast services, including blood tests and GP consultations for erectile dysfunction investigations. We prioritise patient confidentiality, especially for sensitive issues like erection problems.

A few options are available for erectile dysfunction treatment, but understanding the specific cause, whether psychological or physical, is important.

Medications are available, offering successful treatment in two out of three cases of erectile dysfunction. However, lifestyle may also cause erectile dysfunction. For example, in the case where atherosclerosis is the cause of erectile dysfunction, lifestyle changes such as weight loss are a treatment option. Medications can also treat such issues by reducing cholesterol.

Our highly-trained doctors are experienced in men’s health issues and offer treatment for erectile dysfunction following consultation and testing if necessary. Our consultation with the doctor to book a specialist appointment costs £150.