Viagra is a well-known male enhancement drug that enables men suffering from erectile dysfunction to perform better. On the marketplace for more than a decade, the tiny pill has proven effective for millions of men around the world, and when taken according to directions, it is a safe, effective oral treatment for varying degrees of male performance difficulties. However, as with any drug or medication, health risks do occur.
Mild Side Effects
Use of Viagra can cause side effects in certain individuals. These may include headaches, upset stomach or nausea and flushing, much like that experienced by someone who is blushing with embarrassment. In some men, complaints of blurred vision or vision that is tinged with a blue haze is noted. Men often complain of an inability to distinguish between green and blue colors, and some have noted some vision loss while taking the drug. Other mild side effects include urinary tract infections, diarrhea and sometimes a runny or stuffy nose.
Long-Term Erection
Complaints of long-term erections have been noted with use of Viagra. Any erection that lasts longer than 4 hours may prove detrimental to genital health and to the penis itself, and it should be addressed by a physician or an emergency room visit.
General Contraindications
Avoid use of Viagra if you have been diagnosed with heart conditions, including heart pain, that require a prescription containing nitrates, because Viagra may increase the chances of a decrease in blood pressure. Individuals who are older than 65 should be offered lowered doses, as should those diagnosed with any serious kidney or liver problems to avoid long-term damage to these organs. Individuals taking PDE5 inhibitors--commonly prescribed for those diagnosed with erectile dysfunction--have complained of some hearing loss, but such conditions are rare. Nevertheless, any unusual symptom or complaint should be discussed with your doctor.
Strokes
A major health risk of Viagra is sudden cardiac events, especially if an individual has experienced irregular heart rhythm or has suffered a heart attack or stroke in the 6 months prior to use of Viagra. Some individuals with angina (chest pain) or with either high or low blood pressure or eye disorders have suffered from hypertension, heart attack and some death following use of Viagra. Discuss such risks with your doctor if you have any suspected or diagnosed heart conditions.
Sexually Transmitted Disease
The official journal of the International AIDS Society states that bisexual or gay men may experience an increased risk of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases through use of Viagra, defining abuse of the substance and risky sexual behaviors combined.
Long-Term Risks
Individuals who engage in long-term use of Viagra may face long-term risks and side effects, which according to the Ottawa Health Research Institute may include difficulty breathing, vision problems, headaches and flushing. Research and studies of the effects of long-term use of Viagra are still under way, results of which may not be known for years.
Member Comments