Multiple Myeloma is a form of cancer that affects the bone marrow. It is usually diagnosed in those who are over the age of 50 and women are more likely to be diagnosed than men. In some cases, people with the condition may experience extreme fatigue, low appetite, and even anemia. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease and it is generally considered to be a fatal illness. However, several medications may be used to treat the symptoms.
One of the most well-known medications for Multiple Myeloma is Viagra. This is not surprising considering that those who are undergoing treatment for this disease often have to deal with erectile dysfunction. In some cases, patients may experience a reduction in blood pressure when taking Viagra which can pose a potential threat to their health. For this reason, it is important to consult with your doctor before trying to self-diagnose or treat any erectile dysfunction with over-the-counter medications or supplements.
Erectile Dysfunction In Multiple Myeloma
Erectile dysfunction is when the body does not produce enough nitric oxide in the blood or the nerves connecting the genitalia with the brain do not function normally. People with this condition may experience difficulty in becoming aroused or maintaining an erection. In some cases, those with ED may mistake this lack of functionality for medical problems such as heart disease or diabetes. However, this is usually a side effect of medication or radiation therapy for cancer. In Multiple Myeloma, radiation therapy can cause damage to the nerves behind the penis which may lead to ED. Additionally, some medications used to treat this disease can cause ED. These are generally anti-seizure medications or cytotoxic chemotherapy agents which are often used in the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Viagra In The Treatment Of Multiple Myeloma
Viagra is a medication that is used to treat erectile dysfunction. It works by increasing the blood flow to the penis so that a normal erections can be maintained. In the treatment of Multiple Myeloma, it is a common choice because it is an easy and effective way to enhance the patient’s quality of life. However, there are several considerations that physicians need to make before prescribing this medication to a cancer patient.
The side effects of this medication often include headache, flushing, upset stomach, dizziness, and blurred vision. In rare cases, patients have experienced sudden cardiac arrest or strokes while taking this medication. As a result, it is not recommended for those who already have heart problems or are at risk for heart disease. Additionally, people who are allergic to sulfites may experience an allergic reaction when taking Viagra.
Is Viagra Safe For Those With Multiple Myeloma?
The short answer is yes. However, like any other medication, there are some risks associated with taking Viagra. In general, these risks are rather small and a patient’s quality of life will almost certainly be improved by the use of this medication. One of the main risks is that patients may experience an increase in blood pressure while taking this medication. If hypertension is an issue, it may be advisable to try a different medication or to consult with a specialist to find the right dosage for your individual condition. Another possible risk is that those with ED may have an increased chance of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. This is mainly because the blood vessels in their penises may constrict which in turn decreases the blood flow to the brain. However, there is no guarantee that this will happen and in some cases, the risk of having a heart attack is actually decreased by treating the condition with Viagra. It is all about finding the right treatment for each unique patient and this often requires trying several medications or supplements before finding one that is beneficial. Additionally, patients should consult with their doctors about any allergies they may have because there are some medications that can cause allergic reactions which in turn can be life-threatening. In summary, while there are risks associated with taking Viagra, the benefits greatly outweigh these risks for those with Multiple Myeloma. More and more physicians are becoming aware of this and are therefore prescribing this medication to their patients for the improvement of their quality of life.