A heart attack or acute coronary syndrome can be a life-changing event. For many men, it means giving up sports and leisure activities, while for others it can mean going back to work.
Regardless of the type of recovery you experience, there is one thing you need to know: Viagra is not safe after a heart attack. In fact, it might be harmful.
So how can you ensure you get the full benefits of the medicine without risking your health? Read on to find out.
Viagra After A Heart Attack: What To Look Out For
The concern over using Viagra after a heart attack is not unfounded. Just like other medications or supplements you are prescribed to take after the event, there are some serious side effects that you need to be aware of.
Firstly, studies have shown that taking Viagra within 24 hours of a heart attack can put you at a higher risk of internal bleeding. This is why your doctor most likely will not recommend it unless you have very limited treatment options available. Even then, the medication may not be suitable for all patients due to concurrent medical issues.
Secondly, Viagra can cause your blood pressure to rise significantly – even dangerously so. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed that the drug can stimulate the nervous system and cause your blood vessels to dilate. This can have serious ramifications if you already have a blood pressure problem or are at risk of developing one.
The potential side effects of Viagra make it a no-go zone for men who have recently suffered a heart attack. However, if you have not yet had one, then it is still an option to consider.
Viagra After A Heart Attack: How To Take It
If you are prescribed Viagra after a heart attack, your doctor will most likely give you instructions on how to take it. It is generally advised to take the first dose no sooner than 24 hours after your heart attack and then the recommended dose every four to six hours as needed to relieve the symptoms of erection dysfunction (ED).
Due to the potentially dangerous side effects of the drug, it is essential you follow the instructions of your physician regardless of whether you have recently had a heart attack or are at risk of having one. This is especially pertinent if you are already taking other medications for heart disease or ED, as combining treatments can result in serious adverse effects.
The general rule of thumb is to avoid tasks that require you to be active as much as possible until you have recovered from your heart attack. This includes things like working, driving, and participating in sports. However, if you are feeling extra adventurous, then low-intensity cardio like walking and swimming are still advisable as they do not require you to be as active as you would be if you were not recovering from a heart attack. Just make sure you are not doing anything that might cause you to have another one. In situations like these, a pro-health lifestyle is always the preferred option.
Viagra After A Heart Attack: When Should You Stop Taking It?
Just like with other medications you are taking for heart disease or ED, your doctor might advise you to stop taking Viagra after a heart attack if he feels you are doing better. This is usually after you have been taking the medication for a couple weeks and your ED symptoms have started to subside. However, even then, it is still a good idea to discuss with your physician whether or not to continue taking the medication.
As long as you are feeling better, you are likely to continue to experience the positive effects of the medication. However, ED is a condition that can come back with a vengeance if you do not treat it properly. So while stopping the medication might be advisable, you must still be aware of the risks associated with the condition and make sure you have alternative treatment options available.
If you have recently suffered a heart attack, then the temptation to pop a pill to fix what is wrong might be overwhelming. However, in most cases, the medication is not necessary and can do more harm than good. If you are feeling adventurous, then try forking out for some organic supplements that have been shown to boost your health and minimize the risk of heart disease.