Greg Harris
We all know what viagra is intended for, but did you know it could have a huge benefit for men beyond sex?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) impacts around 18 to 30 million men in the US alone, and it’s more common as you get older.
At the age of 40, around 40 percent of men are affected, and this rises to 70 percent for those aged 70, according to NIDDK.
Just so you know, ED pills like Viagra don’t help men stand to attention out of nowhere, as they help by relaxing blood vessels, which lets more blood flow into the penis. When someone is aroused, that extra blood flow makes it easier for a man to be on full mast.
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In other words, they only work if there’s sexual stimulation.
Aside from providing a boost down below, a new study published in the World Journal of Men’s Health has shed light on further benefits of the little blue pulls. These pills, known as PDE5 inhibitors, might also assist with managing heart disease, stroke risk, and diabetes.
The pills may help improve blood flow and heart health, keeping your circulation in check. The study also suggest these drugs can help guys with an enlarged prostate, easing urinary symptoms like frequent trips to the bathroom.
ED can be common for men dealing with prostate cancer. PDE5 inhibitors are often recommended to help with sexual function.
"In summary, the available evidence base is encouraging bearing in mind the potentially pleiotropic effects of PDE5 and could be particularly relevant in the case of prostate cancer patients," the study’s authors wrote.
"However, because the evidence base is mostly generated from observational studies, these findings cannot prove a causal relationship," they noted.
“Sadly, too many men are missing out on simple treatments that could set them on the right track to getting their sex life back and, the evidence shows, could improve many other serious, life-limiting conditions they may face,” Sophie Smith, a senior specialist nurse with Prostate Cancer UK, told The Telegraph.
“Lots of men tell us that they find it difficult to bring up the subject of sex at their appointments, often because they are embarrassed, or they don’t want to waste the doctor’s time.”
Smith added: “I encourage healthcare professionals to talk proactively and regularly with patients about their sexual wellbeing, and treatments that can help.
“I’d also like to reassure every man living with or after prostate cancer that your sex life is important, and that you can talk to your GP about erection problems.
“Finally, erection pills don’t work for all men, but there are other treatment options.”
You should consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking ED medication.