People suffering from erectile dysfunction may present in a variety of ways:

• The individual is unable to achieve an erection at all.
• An erection occurs, but it doesn’t last very long.
• An erection occurs, but the penis is not hard enough for penetration.
• Affected males can still achieve ejaculation and orgasm while suffering from erectile dysfunction.

It is important that you talk with your medical doctor if you are suffering from any of the above-mentioned symptoms. Please be candid and forthright in mentioning your symptoms, the onset and duration of illness, any other medical illnesses you’re suffering from plus any other information that might seem relevant. The medical professional you’re visiting may ask you several questions pertaining to your illness. It is imperative to be prepared for these questions and answer them with full honesty and openness to your doctor. Some of the questions that you may be asked are:

• Are you suffering from erectile dysfunction or any other male sexual disorder such as premature ejaculation, loss of libido, Peyronie’s disease etc.?
• Is your erectile dysfunction linked to psychological factors such as stress or anxiety? Or are there any physical causes for this disorder in your case? A useful clue in such a scenario is to check for the involuntary penile erections that occur early morning with REM sleep. These are preserved in patients with psychological disturbances, while patients with medical illnesses don’t have such erections. A stressor (like a failed relationship) may also be enquired upon.
• Are you a chronic smoker? Or do you suffer from any medical illness such as heart disease, atherosclerosis, any history of radiation therapy, any pelvic surgeries in the past or any conditions reflecting a low testosterone level (such as lack of sexual desire or fantasy, gynecomastia, decreased facial hair)?
• Are you taking any medications that may interfere with the penile erection process? Do you consume recreational drugs or alcohol on a regular basis?