Erectile dysfunction(ED), also known as "impotence" is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection for sexual intercourse. ED, can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only briefly. These different types make defining ED and estimating its spread, difficult. Estimates range from 15 million to 30 million, depending on the definition used. There has been a gradual decrease presumably, since treatments such as vacuum devices and drugs have become more widely available and discussing Erectile Dysfunction became accepted.
The most talked-about advance was the introduction of the oral drug sildenafil citrate (Generic Viagra) in March 1998. In older men, ED usually has a physical cause, such as disease, injury, or side effects of drugs.
ED is treatable at any age, and awareness of this fact has been growing.
Patient Background:
Medical and sexual histories help define the scale and type of ED. A medical history will show diseases that lead to ED, while a simple description of sexual activity will show those causes.
Physical Examination:
Physical examination can also give clues to these problems.
Laboratory Tests:
Several laboratory tests can help diagnose ED. Tests for general diseases include blood counts, urinalysis, lipid profile, and measurements of creatinine and liver enzymes.
Other Tests:
Certain other tests may be required depending on the Doctor's decision
