ED is a common and worrying problem. One thing to do is to talk to your family Doctor because it is important to establish if you have an underlying condition that may be contributing to it. Over 80% of ED has an a physical cause, such as, heart disease, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol or diabetes. Sometimes, commonly - prescribed medications, such as antidepressants (SSRIs) or blood pressure treatment can lead to ED as a side effect. Whatever the cause losing weight and taking regular exercise has been proven to help so you can take action to help yourself.

Dr Graham Jackson, Consultant Cardiologist, London, Chairman Sexual Dysfunction Association

What tests could my doctor do?

80% of ED has a physical cause due to an underlying condition, So tests, as well as a physical examination, may be carried out to help find possible physical causes, for example:

Test: Blood pressure level
High blood pressure is linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes - both known
causes of ED.

Test: Blood sugar level - urine sugar level
Can help to determine if you have diabetes. An initial check can be done there and then, but you may need to come back for a further test such as a glucose tolerance test.

Test: Cholesterol level
Together with the tests above, knowing the level of cholesterol and other lipids in your blood can help determine your cardiovascular health status.

Test: Testosterone level
If your level of the hormone testosterone is low then chances are that your libido or sex drive is low too. So your doctor could take a small blood sample to test for this treatable condition.

Test: Your current medications
The side effects of some medications may be responsible for causing ED. So your doctor will also review any current medication.