Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects nearly half of all men aged 40 and older. Given their popularity, many men turn to erectile dysfunction medications to address their sexual health issues. However, like most treatments, these medications come with potential side effects.
Prescription pills offer a one-size-fits-all solution to a complex set of underlying causes, which vary from man to man. Therefore, men seeking to regain a healthy sex life should consider avoiding ED pills and instead opt for a customized erectile dysfunction treatment plan based on a specialized diagnosis tailored to their unique circumstances.
Here Are Some Side Effects of ED Medications To Be Aware Of
Different Types of ED Medications
While ED medications are similar, they differ in their chemical makeup, which affects how long they last, their potential side effects, and how quickly they take effect.
Sildenafil (Viagra): Taken one hour before sex, effective for 4 to 5 hours, suitable for mild to moderate ED.
Tadalafil (Cialis): Taken one to two hours before sex, effective for up to 36 hours, with adjustable dosage.
Vardenafil (Levitra): Taken one hour before sex, effective for 4 to 5 hours.
Avanafil (Stendra): Takes effect in 30 minutes and lasts up to 6 hours.
Side Effects of ED Medications
Visual Changes
Some men experience visual changes such as blurry vision, light sensitivity, or difficulty distinguishing between blue and green objects. This occurs because the sudden increase in blood flow caused by ED pills can affect the eyes’ delicate blood vessels and tissue. Men with genetic eye conditions like Retinitis Pigmentosa or Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy may be more susceptible to severe symptoms, including vision loss.
Headaches
Headaches are a common side effect of ED drugs, caused by the build-up of nitric oxide in the bloodstream, which dilates blood vessels and can inflame parts of the brain, resulting in migraines. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, 1 in 4 men who take sildenafil (Viagra) experience headaches, often in the form of cluster headaches that can last for weeks to months.
Hearing Loss
ED medications, classified as PDE5 inhibitors, can increase blood flow and have been used historically to treat high blood pressure. A study by the Federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality found that men aged 40 and older who took PDE-5i medications were twice as likely to report hearing loss compared to those who did not use ED pills. This effect was more pronounced with Viagra than with Levitra or Cialis. Approximately 33% of hearing loss reports were temporary.
Flushes
Flushes, or red patches on the skin, are common with ED medications like Viagra, occurring in 30.8% of patients. These patches usually appear on the face but can also manifest elsewhere on the body, ranging from mild to severe.
Priapism
Priapism, a rare but serious condition, occurs when an erection persists after sexual activity due to the blood flow effects of PDE-5 inhibitor drugs. This condition requires medical attention as it can be extremely debilitating.
Back Aches
Many men report lower back pain as a side effect of ED medications. This may be related to age and declining testosterone levels, which reduce muscle mass and mobility. Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms, but it is advisable to consult a doctor first.
GainsWave: A Better Alternative
ED pills can provide temporary relief by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, but the effects are short-lived. GainsWave shockwave therapy treats the root cause of ED by clearing plaque in the blood vessels and promoting the growth of new, healthy blood vessels. This improves blood flow, resulting in longer-lasting and healthier erections.
The safe, non-invasive GainsWave procedure requires just a few fifteen-minute visits to a provider’s office. Clinical studies have validated the effectiveness of shockwave therapy.
Consult OC Wellness for Safe and Effective ED Treatments
If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction or another common sexual dysfunction, you don’t have to go through it alone. Men struggling with sexual impotence should avoid one-size-fits-all solutions like ED pills and instead seek a customized erectile dysfunction treatment plan based on a specialized diagnosis.
OC Wellness is a provider of GainsWave and has helped countless men reclaim their confidence and get rid of their ED symptoms. We invite you and your significant other for a consultation at OC Wellness, where our experienced team will be happy to address all your questions and concerns. CLICK HERE to schedule or call us directly at 949-222-0232.
