You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. This will include an examination of the penis, testicles, and rectum. Be prepared to identify every medication you are taking. Medications account for a large number of erectile dysfunction cases. Expect questions about the frequency, quality, and duration of your erections. Your answers may help determine if the primary cause is physical or psychological in nature.

Tests will help narrow down the cause and may include:

• Blood tests to evaluate kidney or heart function. Blood tests can also check levels of:
  • Testosterone
  • Glucose
  • Cholesterol
  • Hormones such as thyroid hormones or prolactin
• Erectile function tests —To evaluate the function of blood vessels and nerves in the pelvic area. Devices can be used to record spontaneous erections at night. This may be an option if you do not remember them because you were asleep.
• Psychological —Psychological factors are associated with sexual functioning, whether they are the cause or just a result. You (with or without your partner) may be given a questionnaire to help determine if there are psychological and emotional factors present.
• Cardiac stress test —Poor cardiovascular function is associated with erectile dysfunction. Exercise tolerance can be similar to sexual activity. Physical testing may include walking on a flat surface for 20 minutes or climbing 2 flights of stairs in 10 seconds.