Sexual performance is intrinsically associated with overall sexual health and so to a man’s (and a woman’s) sense of wellbeing. Dysfunction in the area of performance can quickly deplete a man’s confidence; so much so that he may be tempted to try whatever product or treatment that sounds viable. Since the development of Viagra and other male enhancement medications, we have seen a plethora of “all-natural” products enter the marketplace. A Viagra alternative may be appealing, but you want to think twice about what you may be putting in your body, and what it may do.
A Look at Herbal Viagra
The idea of an herbal Viagra was developed for marketing purposes alone. This type of product, formulated with plant extracts, is supposed to increase sexual function by imitating the same synergy in the body that is achieved with tested, proven Viagra. The issue is, these products are not regulated – and it is not known how extensively studied they are, either.
A Look at Viagra
Viagra is a PDE5 inhibitor that increases erectile function by facilitating blood flow to the penis. More blood circulates into the penis because Viagra enlarges the blood vessels. All blood vessels, not only those that lead to the penis. It is the dilation of blood vessels that correlates to the post-Viagra headache that some men develop.
This dilation of blood vessels could be dangerous! For this reason, doctors perform a thorough health history and physical on patients before prescribing this drug. Not everyone is a good candidate for Viagra, including men who take medication for high blood pressure or enlarged prostate. These same men could be adversely affected by a Viagra alternative. And there’s more . . .
Erectile dysfunction is not a problem to self-diagnose or self-treat. In many cases, poor erections are the result of a primary problem. Low testosterone is one example. Other potential causes of erectile dysfunction include a heart problem or metabolic syndrome. Treating erectile dysfunction as a primary problem could inhibit proper medical care for a larger concern.
Sexual health is an important aspect of a man’s wellbeing. The management of sexual health, and of erectile dysfunction, should be entrusted to an experienced Urologist.
