When it comes to a medication such as Viagra, both the medical community and patients have a lot to learn about realistic expectations and appropriate treatment. One area in particular that is often misconstrued is the side effect profile of Viagra. After all, if a medication is available over the counter and is so incredibly effective, why would anyone even think about using it responsibly? The following discussion will set the record straight and help you understand what to expect from Viagra and how to treat it responsibly.
Realistic Expectations
Before we begin, it is important to note that Viagra is a medication that is used to help men with erectile dysfunction (ED). Thus, it is a prescription drug that is only meant to be used under the supervision of a physician. There are many other ED medications out there such as Cialis and Levitra that men can take in order to experience the same positive effects as those produced by Viagra. However, because these other medications are not sold over the counter, they must be prescribed by a physician. Keep this in mind as we discuss the side effects of Viagra below.
Expect The Unexpected
As with any medication, there are several potential side effects that Viagra users should be aware of. Some of these side effects are very dangerous and can even be life threatening. For this reason, it is essential that you educate yourself about these side effects and know how to identify them. Below, we will discuss a few of these side effects and how you can treat them appropriately.
Dizziness
One of the most dangerous side effects of Viagra is dizziness. In fact, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this side effect is more commonly reported by patients than by any of the other medications that are used to treat ED. If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Viagra, it could be a sign that you are suffering from overuse syndrome. Simply put, this happens when a patient starts taking the medication without ever feeling that they have completely recovered from the side effects of ED. In some rare cases, patients have even overdosed on Viagra and suffered from a life-threatening overdose. In this situation, the patient would have to be hospitalized and monitored for potential complications. If you experience any type of dizziness while taking Viagra, it should be considered a medical emergency and you should seek help right away. Otherwise, it could become much more serious.
Headaches
Another serious side effect of Viagra is headaches. In fact, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, these headaches are among the most common side effects of the medication. However, since these headaches are not life-threatening, they are often underreported and under-treated. This can lead to even more serious complications. When patients do experience headaches while on Viagra, it is most commonly reported as a mild to moderate tension headache. However, in some instances, these headaches have developed into a more serious form known as a vasodilation headache. This happens when blood vessels in the patient’s head become dilated (enlarged) as a result of taking Viagra. In some rare cases, patients have even had to quit taking the medication because of these constant debilitating headaches. Thus, if you experience any type of headaches while taking Viagra, it is important that you seek help from your physician as soon as possible. He may be able to prescribe you something to help reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches.
Dry Mouth
One of the most common side effects of Viagra is dry mouth. In fact, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), this side effect is mentioned in patients’ discharge reports more frequently than any other side effect. This is quite possibly because most people with ED experience some form of dry mouth. So, it is not entirely surprising that this is one of the most common side effects of Viagra. For this reason, if you experience any dry mouth while taking the medication, it is essential that you bring this to the attention of your physician. He may be able to prescribe you an antidiabetic medication (such as Glucophage or Metformin) or an artificial saliva product (such as xylitol gum or liquid). Alternatively, he may be able to suggest a behavioral change (e.g., avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use) that can help reduce the frequency of your dry mouth. Regardless, if you experience any type of dry mouth while taking Viagra, it is imperative that you treat it responsibly. Otherwise, it could become much more serious.
Frequent Urination
Another side effect of Viagra is frequent urination. In fact, according to the NIDDK, this is one of the most commonly reported side effects of the medication. Many different theories exist as to why this happens. One of the most common ones is that the medication increases vasodilation (vasoconstriction being its opposite). As a result, the blood vessels in the patient’s urinary tract (the ureters) become dilated (enlarged), leading to increased bladder pressure and the need to void frequently. In some instances, patients have even developed urinary retention (incapacitation) as a result of taking Viagra. In patients with urinary retention, the bladder becomes so swollen that it actually starts hurting. In cases like this, the patient will require surgical intervention (i.e., a urinary catheter will be inserted) in order to relieve the pressure caused by the swollen bladder. However, even patients who do not experience any type of urinary problems while taking the medication could still experience a significant decrease in urine output. In these cases, it is essential that you inform your physician about this issue. In the meantime, you can treat it with a medication such as Ditropan or Hytrin or by practicing fluid restriction (i.e., drinking less soda and more water). Alternatively, you can also try and see if there is anything else that you are missing that would cause you to need to urinate more frequently (e.g., low potassium levels due to diabetes). If you are experiencing any type of frequent urination while taking Viagra, it is imperative that you treat it responsibly. Otherwise, it could become much more serious.
Appropriate Treatment
If you are reading this, chances are you are either a patient or a family member of a patient who is taking this medication. Thus, it is essential that you are aware of what constitutes appropriate treatment and what does not. Below, we will discuss a few of the things that you should not do while on this medication and a few of the things that you should do.
Do Not Take Medicines That Are Similar To Or In Synergy With Viagra
It is important to note that Viagra is an active ingredient in many different medications. This is precisely what makes it so effective. However, as we just discussed, this same property makes the drug very dangerous. In order to prevent any unfortunate interactions, you must be extremely careful about what medications you are taking and what drugs you are combining with it. The following list details a few of the drugs that are either similar to or in synergy with Viagra. If you are not sure whether or not a certain medication is going to be harmful to you when taken with Viagra, it is advised by the University of Maryland Medical Center that you should not take it: