Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) should discuss Viagra (sildenafil) use with their doctor. BPH often involves urinary issues, and Viagra can worsen these. Specifically, Viagra can relax the bladder neck, potentially causing urinary retention, making urination more difficult.
Understanding the Interaction
Viagra’s mechanism of action involves increasing blood flow throughout the body, including the prostate. This increased blood flow, while beneficial for erectile dysfunction, can exacerbate urinary symptoms in men with an enlarged prostate. This can lead to more frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urinary stream, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. The severity varies depending on the individual’s BPH severity and other health conditions.
Alternative Treatments
If you experience these issues, alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction exist. Your doctor can discuss options like Cialis (tadalafil), which may have a less pronounced effect on the urinary tract, or other non-medication approaches such as lifestyle changes or surgery for BPH. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
Monitoring and Safety
Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is important when using Viagra, especially if you have BPH, as it can sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure. Report any new or worsening urinary symptoms or changes in your blood pressure to your physician immediately. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing both BPH and erectile dysfunction safely and effectively.
