Testing for ED

There are a number of tests that can help your doctor determine the causes of ED. Some of the tests can also identify problems that could also affect other areas of your health, such as heart disease and diabetes. The following information describes the various tests that you doctor might order.

Blood Tests

Testosterone level

Normal testosterone levels are necessary for proper sexual functioning, and low levels may cause decreased libido, ED, or both. A testosterone level should be drawn as early as possible in the morning in order to be most accurate, but fasting is not necesary

Fasting blood sugar and Hemoglobin A1c

These are tests for diabetes, or high blood sugar. This is a common cause of ED, and is a very serious condition. If left untreated it can cause heart disease, nerve pain or numbness, kidney failure, and other medical problems

Lipid panel (cholesterol tests)

Many men with ED also have heart disease, and elevated cholesterol levels are a major risk for heart disease

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

An abnormal TSH can indicate an under or over-functioning thyroid gland. This can cause ED, heart disease, and other medical problems

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

This panel of tests measures kidney and liver function

Complete blood count (CBC)

This tests for anemia or other abnormalities of the blood

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

This is a test for prostate cancer and prostate enlargement. The prostate is not related to ED, but all men over age 40 should know their PSA level. Men with a PSA over 1.0 should have it checked yearly, and all men should have the PSA every year or two after age 50

Office Tests

Penile Doppler Test

This is a test to determine if the blood flow into and out of the penis is normal. Men with severely decreased blood flow into the penis have blockage of the penile arteries, and are less likely to respond to medical therapy. Men with venous leak can also be diagnosed with this test. Many men are reassured to know if they have a physical cause for ED. Click here to learn more about this test.