Loss of erectile function is not just a problem for older men. A significant number of younger men - even those in their late teens and early twenties - may experience erection problems that inhibit their ability to enjoy a normal sex life. This problem can be distressing, frustrating, and embarrassing - not to mention self-fulfilling, as men who are worried about their ability to perform may inadvertently cause loss of penis function through anxiety alone. Fortunately, there is a vast number of treatment options; and, of course, choosing the right course of action depends on determining the underlying cause. The diagnostic tests described here are commonly used for men who have ongoing loss of function and can help identify the right approach to penis care and treatment needed to overcome this devastating problem.

Causes of erection problems

Understanding how these tests work depends on knowing what causes loss of function in the first place. Erectile issues are complex, and there may be multiple factors involved, including:

- Diabetes;

- Nerve problems;

- Circulatory issues;

- Obesity;

- Psychological issues.

Tests for erectile function

When looking for the cause of an erection problem, doctors will generally perform a series of checks and tests to determine a man’s state of overall health. These may include a blood pressure check, a physical exam of the penis and testicles, and various blood tests to check for hormone levels that may be contributing to the problem. In addition, the following specialized tests may be carried out:

1) The nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) test. Men who have erectile problems related to psychological issues will still have nocturnal erections while they sleep. The NPT test can determine whether a man is still having normal periods of arousal during the night; if this is the case, then psychological counseling may be the right approach to treatment. An NPT test is carried out by sliding a band over the penis while a man sleeps. A simple version of this test involves a band that will snap when the penis becomes engorged, while a more sophisticated version will send electronic impulses to a recorder.

2) The intracavernosal injection test. This test involves injecting an erectile medication into the penis in order to cause an erection to form. A doctor will then measure the firmness and duration of the erection to determine whether there may be a physiological cause for the loss of function.

3) The Doppler ultrasound test. This test uses a special ultrasound scanner that is passed over the penis to detect the speed and direction of the blood flow. It may be used in conjunction with an intracavernosal injection and can determine whether there are blockages or other circulatory issues that are impeding normal blood flow.

A holistic approach to penile health care

Through testing and assessment, men and their doctors should be able to work out what, exactly, is causing the loss of function and determine an individualized treatment plan. This may include medications, lifestyle changes, and/or psychological counseling. In addition to these therapeutic measures, it is also important to make sure the penis itself is healthy. This means eating right, getting the right amount of exercise, and learning to cope with stress in an appropriate manner. Limiting one’s intake of alcohol and quitting smoking are also urged for men looking to enhance their ability to perform.

In addition to these steps, use of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can provide a much-needed boost in the condition, appearance and sensitivity of the penile tissue. Men should look for a product containing amino acids such as L-arginine, which plays a role in the erectile response; vitamin C should also be included in this list of ingredients due to its function in maintaining healthy circulatory tissue. Hydrating agents such as vitamin E are vital to penile health, as well, locking in hydration and making sure the skin is soft, smooth and responsive A healthier, more supple-looking penis can drastically improve a man’s level of self-confidence in the bedroom and may help in overcoming any shyness and embarrassment that is impeding his ability to perform.