Although the causes of erectile dysfunction are mainly psychological, there are also cases that respond to factors of organic origin, such as: cardiovascular risk, atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction.
However, it is common that those who present erectile dysfunction also suffer from other pathologies, among them:
- Type II diabetes.
- Hyperlipidemia.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
According to a study published by the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition and elaborated by Dr. Antonio Becerra Fernández, it is estimated that around 50% of men between 40 and 70 years of age suffer different degrees of erectile dysfunction and that this prevalence increases in diabetic patients.
The probability of suffering from erectile dysfunction increases with age, but suffering from type II diabetes also leads to it.
Therefore, early diagnosis is essential to reverse the effects and improve the patient’s sexual health.
Some of the most commonly used diagnostic techniques are based on the general and sexual amnesia of both the patient and his or her partner.
Physical examinations of the genitourinary, cardiovascular, endocrine and neurological systems and a prostate examination are also performed.
Finally, a blood test will be requested to determine the serum testosterone concentration and, in some cases, a determination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), fasting blood glucose (or HbA1c) and cholesterol will be requested in the same analysis.
Is there any treatment?
Once the diagnostic tests have been performed, the specialist works to detect the causes and treat them systemically.
Symptoms can be controlled by oral administration of selective penile phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and the introduction of vasodilator drugs will ensure erectile capacity and also allow treatment of reduced libido.