Although erectile dysfunction (ED) has received a great deal of publicity in the past few years, it’s still considered a ‘man’s problem’. However, that’s certainly no longer the case. Thanks to the development of ED medications such as Viagra, Tomsia, and Kamagra, men are finally realizing that impotence is a problem that affects not only them.
While ED medications certainly have their place, it’s important to note that there are some cases where they might not be the best option. One such case is where the problem is due to liver or kidney disease. In these cases, using ED medication might actually do more harm than good. For example, when men with kidney damage take Viagra, it increases their blood pressure and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
So, if you’re wondering whether or not to take Viagra, or if you’re just learning about its potential side effects, then keep reading.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is a drug that was first introduced to the market in 1998. Developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, it was approved for use as an ED medication in 2002. Since then, it’s been used to treat a variety of sexual dysfunctions, including premature ejaculation, inability to reach orgasm, and more.
Viagra is a PDE-5 inhibitor, which is a type of medication that increases the blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. When blood flow is increased, it allows more oxygen and nutrients to be delivered to the penis, which results in an erection that lasts longer. When taken orally as a 50 mg dose (the dose that’s commonly recommended), Viagra has a reported half-life of 12 to 16 hours and is usually effective within two to four hours.
Why Is Viagra Still A Man’s Problem?
Although ED medications such as Viagra have made tremendous inroads into the treatment of impotence, it still remains a ‘man’s problem’. The reason for this is simply that the problem has been deemed ‘unmasculine’ to the point where it’s not regarded as an issue that needs to be addressed. Unfortunately, this type of thinking still permeates much of the medical community. Even today, many doctors and nurses are still not aware of the extent of the problem or the fact that it’s affecting more and more men every day. Some doctors mistakenly believe that impotence is only related to aging and not to be confused with other sexual dysfunctions. This type of thinking needs to change.
For too long, ED has been regarded as a ‘man’s problem’, and it’s now time for that to change. As previously stated, Viagra is a drug that’s been specifically designed to treat ED. However, as it turns out, it has a variety of other uses as well.
If you’re taking or have taken Viagra, you might notice that it has various other names such as sildenafil, silagra, or vardenafil. This is because the drug was originally marketed under the brand names of Revatio and Levitra. Although it is still commonly referred to as ‘Viagra’, companies that produce and market PDE-5 inhibitors such as Pfizer no longer market it under that name. They have a variety of other products that they market as ‘Viagra’. If you want to take or have taken this medication, the best thing for you to do is to consult your doctor so that he can advise you on what is best in your situation.
Is It Safe To Take Viagra If I Have Kidney Disease?
One of the side effects that’s been associated with taking Viagra is kidney damage. Specifically, it has been known to cause thinning of the skin and the degeneration of kidney tissue. When this happens, it’s usually a sign that the body is not properly processing the drug. This is why doctors often advise their patients not to take it if they have kidney disease or are at risk of developing it.
In the UK, the risk of developing kidney disease is higher in men than women. It’s also a greater issue among black and Asian men. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity are all factors that contribute to this. Although there doesn’t appear to be any direct evidence linking ED to kidney disease, it’s still considered ‘vitally important’ to avoid factors that might damage the kidneys while taking or having taken this drug.
Can ED Be Inherited?
There is also some evidence to suggest that ED can be inherited. Specifically, it has been known to run in some families. Although this might not seem like a common issue to those who don’t have the disease, if your father, your brother, or your son all have ED, it’s important to pay attention to them and see if this is a problem that runs in your family.
If it does, it might be a good idea to discuss the matter with your doctor so that he can advise you on what tests or examinations you need to have to confirm the diagnosis. Once this is done, there are a variety of treatments available, and it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you.
ED is a very common issue, and it’s definitely something that should be addressed. Fortunately, with the help of doctors and medication, there’s no reason for you or any man to be ashamed of this problem. With a little effort, you can ensure that your sex life is healthy and fun again.