#HealthBytes: Effects and side-effects of taking Viagra
One of the most popular (and controversial) drugs to have hit the pharma markets across the globe, in the past couple of decades, Viagra is a name everyone has heard of. Commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (or impotence) in men, Viagra has helped many couples improve their life under the sheets, as well as generally. Here's how Viagra works, and its possible side-effects.
What are Viagra pills?
Viagra pills are blue-colored, diamond-shaped drugs, that were initially designed to treat hypertension and angina pectoris. However, today they are used by men, all over the globe, to treat erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, some men without any erectile problems, use Viagra recreationally, for enhanced sexual performance.
How does Viagra work?
The active ingredient in Viagra called sildenafil relaxes the muscles in our blood vessels, thereby helping improve blood flow to certain areas of the body (including the penis). This improved blood flow helps men suffering from erectile dysfunction develop and maintain healthy erections.
Viagra pills may lead to headaches, nausea, indigestion, and dizziness
One of the most common side-effects of taking Viagra pills is mild headache. However, it typically doesn't last long, and you can always get an over-the-counter painkiller to treat it. Other side effects include nausea, facial flushing, and hot flushes. Additionally, some men report suffering from indigestion, nasal congestion and dizziness after taking the tablet.
Viagra may lead to vision disturbance among users
Visual disturbance is another common side effect of taking Viagra pills. One might experience blurred vision or blueness in vision as a result of taking the drug. However, the condition lasts only for a number of minutes in most cases. If you suffer prolonged vision problem or a severe inability to see, you should seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
What are some uncommon/rare side-effects of taking Viagra pills
Some uncommon side-effects of taking Viagra pills are blood pressure changes, muscle aches, upset stomach, and skin rashes. Other rare side-effects include fainting, strokes, heart attacks, numbness in mouth or throat, penile bleeding, hearing problems, irritation, and in some cases- unnaturally prolonged erections (priaprism).
