Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis and Tests

Erectile dysfunction is diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. At Liv Hospital, advanced diagnostic methods help identify underlying causes accurately.

Diagnosis and Tests: A Scientific Approach to Erectile Dysfunction

At Liv Hospital, the diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction (Sertleşme Sorunu) is treated with the same clinical rigor as any other major cardiovascular or neurological condition. Because ED is often a symptom of an underlying systemic issue, our diagnostic process is designed to be comprehensive, moving far beyond a simple physical exam. We utilize a "gold standard" diagnostic battery to differentiate between vascular, hormonal, neurological, and psychological causes. This precision allows us to move away from "trial and error" treatments and toward targeted, effective solutions.

A thorough diagnosis is essential because treating the symptom without understanding the cause can be dangerous. For example, prescribing erectile medication to a man with undiagnosed severe heart disease could put undue strain on his cardiovascular system. At Liv Hospital, we aim for "Diagnostic Certainty." By using high-resolution vascular imaging and advanced endocrine panels, we can provide a definitive answer to why the dysfunction is occurring and what the safest path to recovery looks like.

Comprehensive Medical and Sexual History

The diagnosis begins with a specialized interview.

• The "IIEF-5" Questionnaire: This is a standardized tool used at Liv Hospital to score the severity of the dysfunction. We look for clues: Does the problem happen with all partners? Are morning erections present? This helps differentiate between psychological and physical causes.

Physical Examination

A urologist performs a focused exam of the genitals and prostate.

• Markers: We check for Peyronie's Disease (physical curvature caused by scar tissue) and the "Cremasteric reflex" to ensure the nerves in the pelvic region are communicating correctly.

Penile Color Doppler Ultrasound

This is the most critical test for evaluating "Vascular ED."

• The Process: A small injection of a vasodilator is given to induce a temporary erection. The ultrasound then measures the speed of blood entering the arteries and the ability of the veins to trap that blood.

Hormone Panel (Total and Free Testosterone)

The endocrine system heavily influences erectile function.

• The Screen: We measure Total Testosterone, Prolactin, and SHBG. Low testosterone (Hypogonadism) can reduce the libido necessary to trigger the chemical signals for an erection.

Blood Glucose and HbA1c (Diabetes Screening)

Since diabetes is a leading cause of nerve and vessel damage, every ED patient at Liv Hospital undergoes a glycemic check. High blood sugar often causes ED long before other diabetic symptoms appear.

Lipid Profile (Cholesterol Check)

High cholesterol leads to atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries). Because the penile arteries are so narrow, they are often the first to be obstructed by cholesterol plaques.

Cardiac Stress Test

Because ED can be a precursor to a heart attack, we may refer patients for a stress test or an EKG. If the "plumbing" in the penis is failing, we must ensure the "pump" (the heart) is healthy enough for sexual activity.

Biothesiometry (Neurological Testing)

This test uses vibrations to measure the sensitivity of the nerves in the penis. It is particularly useful for diabetic patients to determine if "Peripheral Neuropathy" is the primary cause of their dysfunction.

Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) Test

This involves wearing a device (like the Rigiscan) while sleeping.

• Goal: It measures the frequency and rigidity of nighttime erections. If a patient has healthy erections while asleep but not while awake, the cause is confirmed as Psychological ED.

Urinalysis

A simple urine test can reveal signs of kidney disease or prostate inflammation (prostatitis), both of which can interfere with normal erectile function and comfort.

Diagnostic Excellence at Liv Hospital

At Liv Hospital, our Andrology Laboratory is equipped with the latest diagnostic technology to provide a 360-degree view of male sexual health. We do not believe in a "one-size-fits-all" diagnosis. Our specialists take the time to listen to your history and combine it with high-precision data from Color Doppler and Endocrine panels. This scientific approach ensures that we find the true root of the problem, allowing us to restore your function safely and effectively. At Liv Hospital, we provide the clarity you need to move toward a successful recovery.