Erectile dysfunction is a common problem among men as they get older, especially as they grow more active. Some men can’t get or maintain an erection, or they lose their ability to become aroused and engaged by their partners. This can make them feel depressed and unsatisfied about their sex lives, which may contribute to the decline in their overall mental and physical health.
There are several options for men with erectile dysfunction, and the most popular of these is Viagra. Can Viagra lower blood pressure? Find out here.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood streaming through your arteries. When your blood pressure is high, it means your arteries are stiff, and the flow of blood toward your brain and other tissues is blocked. Your blood pressure can be raised by certain foods, especially those high in salt; by stress; by smoking; and by certain medications, such as beta blockers and thiazides. As you get older, your blood pressure tends to increase naturally.
How Does Blood Pressure Work?
Blood pressure works in conjunction with several hormones and chemical messengers that regulate blood flow through your body’s vessels. When your blood pressure is high, your kidneys react by sending out hormones that cause constriction of the blood vessels throughout your body. This prevents fluid from leaking from the blood vessels and accumulating in your tissues, which could lead to serious health problems. The following are the most common effects of high blood pressure:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Poor concentration
- Irritability
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Tiredness
- Migraines
Does Viagra Cause Lower Blood Pressure?
Yes, it does. According to a study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, men who took Viagra had significantly lower blood pressure than individuals who took a placebo. Even men who had high blood pressure before taking the drug had significantly lowered it after taking it.
How Many Times Should I Take Viagra?
You should take Viagra once a day, at the same time each day. Do not take more than one dose per day, except in cases of overdose or when advised by a physician. Stopping or starting the drug without consulting a physician can cause serious health complications.
Is It Safe To Mix Viagra With Other Drugs?
Yes, it’s safe to mix Viagra with other drugs. Just make sure you inform your physician about any other medications you’re taking, particularly blood pressure medications or nitrates, as the combination of these two drug classes can have fatal consequences.
Should I Be Concerned About Mixing Alcohol With Viagra?
There shouldn’t be any concerns about mixing alcohol with Viagra. Just make sure you’re not drinking alcohol while you’re taking the drug.
How Long Does It Take For Viagra To Work?
It takes Viagra a few minutes to start working and up to an hour to have the maximum effect. The drug takes time to penetrate your tissues and reach its active component.
Are There Any Side Effects From Taking Viagra?
Yes. While most people will not experience any side effects from taking Viagra, men in the study did experience a few:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Flushing
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Dysuria (painful urination)
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- None
These side effects should not be a cause for concern. Just make sure you inform your physician about any new or worsening symptoms. They may require a different medication or may indicate that you’ve had a coronary event, in which case you should seek additional medical assistance.
What Forms Does Viagra Come In?
Viagra is available in the form of tablets, liquid, and a gel for vaginal and rectal use. Your physician may prescribe a particular form of the drug based on your condition.
How Long Does It Take For Viagra To Wear Off?
Like any other medication, Viagra has an half-life. This is the time it takes for the body’s natural resources to reduce the amount of the drug in your bloodstream by half. In most cases, this means the medication will start losing its effectiveness after 36 to 48 hours. In rare instances, it can take longer for the effects of the drug to wear off.