Viagra is the brand name of sildenafil citrate. It is an oral medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. Drugs.com explains that it works by increasing blood flow to particular areas of the body. Viagra is taken between 30 minutes and four hours before sexual activity. Once it is taken its impact can last up to four hours. As with any medication, Viagra has the potential for side effects.
Less Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com indicates that the most common side effects of Viagra are considered mild. They include warmth or redness of the face, neck or chest. Other mild side effects include stuffy nose, headache, memory problems, upset stomach or back pain. In rare cases, RxList.com indicates users may develop a urinary tract infection, diarrhea, rash, respiratory tract infection or flu-like syndromes.
Serious Side Effects
More serious hazards of Viagra may include vision loss; ringing in the ears; sudden loss of hearing; chest pain; nausea; sweating; heartbeat irregularities; swelling of the hands, ankles or feet; and shortness of breath. RxList.com indicates some users may experience pain that spreads to the arm or shoulder from the chest or have a heavy feeling in the chest area. Users may report feeling ill or light-headed, fainting or having an erection that is painful or lasts four hours or more. An erection that lasts over four hours should be treated medically or else permanent penile tissue damage can be the result.
RxList.com also suggests that Viagra and sexual activity may elevate blood pressure leading to other health concerns. Some users will experience warning symptoms, like those described, but others can experience a stroke, myocardial infarction or loss of consciousness. If this occurs once, a user should discontinue Viagra.
Complications
Severe reactions to Viagra may present side effects during sexual activity including dizziness or nausea. Drugs.com also warns to seek emergency medical care if pain, numbness or tingling occur in the chest, arms, neck or jaw.
Reasons to Avoid Viagra
Individuals who take medications containing nitrates should not take Viagra. Individuals who have not been deemed healthy enough to participate in sexual activity by a doctor should not take Viagra. Men over the age of 65 or men who have serious liver or kidney problems should use the lowest possible dose of Viagra. Other reasons a doctor may prescribe a low dose of Viagra include hypertension, prostate problems, the use of certain medications, existing cardiovascular disease or other health concerns your doctor may have.
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