It is typically done through the process of elimination. There are so many factors involved in getting and maintaining an erection firm enough to have sexual relations, Dr. Brant will test one possibility at a time to finally reach the real cause. Only then can proper treatment be provided.
Process of Elimination
When there is difficulty getting and/or keeping an erection long enough for satisfactory sex and intimacy, that is erectile dysfunction. Many people think it’s only when it doesn’t work at all, but that’s not the case. When everything is working right, erections can come and go without a thought. You never think about everything that has to go “right” to get and keep one.
There happen to be multiple parts of your body and mind that have to be in sync. With occasional ED or if it becomes more common, suddenly you need to become aware of “what parts” need to be in sync. 
Contacting our board-certified urologist, Dr. William Brant for an erectile dysfunction appointment in Salt Lake City, is your first step toward getting the answers. Call us today at (801) 965-2767.
The causes of ED can be due to physical issues, mental/psychological issues, or emotional problems.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: The Physical Test
Your urologist will begin by taking your medical history and asking lots of questions.
Blood tests and a physical exam will indicate any physical issues that can cause ED like the following:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Kidney disease
- Low testosterone
Any of these can contribute to erectile dysfunction. If one or more are identified, Dr. Brant may begin treating those particular issues. Several of these physical problems can affect blood flow throughout your body. This, in turn, can be a significant cause of ED.
Dr. Brant may recommend additional tests beyond the blood tests and physical exam.
If a more thorough diagnosis is required, a doppler ultrasound may be recommended. This is a series of ultrasounds (typically 3), which do not require radiation, that evaluate the blood flow. Getting a view of how blood gets into the penis and how the penis is able to store it can provide a lot of information.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Emotional and Mental Issues
Depression, stress, and anxiety can contribute a great deal to erectile dysfunction.
Dr. Brant will discuss these issues with you and give you a psychological screening test for depression.
Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis: Other Risk Factors
Smoking, drinking to excess, lack of exercise, and use of recreational drugs can also contribute to ED. Being over the age of 50 can be a contributing factor, but men in their 80s can still have a satisfactory sex life.
There may not be only one cause of ED, but a combination of factors. Fortunately, no matter what the cause, there is usually a treatment that can take care of it.
Getting a thorough evaluation from our urologist in Salt Lake City will help pinpoint the cause and provide direction on which treatment option is best for you.
Contact our board-certified urologist, Dr. William Brant in Salt Lake City to schedule an appointment for tests and treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Call our urology clinic in Salt Lake City at (801) 965-2767.