Latest statistics show that ED affects roughly 20% of adult males. This is the overall percentage, and this differs within age groups. More older males are likely to have ED than younger males. Drugs to treat the condition are effective enough, and this include Cialis. Like all medications, this drug also comes with possible unwanted effects. Let’s take a good look at the side effect specifics – Cialis along with other important information.
What is ED and how does Cialis help?
Erectile Dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection necessary for sex. Erections are achieved when the brain sends a signal, and the muscles in the penis relax. This allows blood to flow to the tissues. ED is the condition when blood flow is not enough or long enough. So, what causes ED?
- Existing health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure, obesity, and hormonal conditions.
- Certain medications can also cause the inability.
- Over consumption alcohol, and tobacco can increase ED.
- Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can worsen physical causes.
- An unhealthy lifestyle with little exercise, poor diet.
Cialis is an oral medication that belongs to the category of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These drugs work by relaxing the muscles in the penis, allowing more blood flow. This helps to achieve and maintain an erection long enough for good sexual performance.
Common side effects of Cialis
These are the commonly experienced effects of the medication:
- Headache
- Flushing in the face, neck, or chest
- Indigestion, heartburn.
- Back pain and muscle pain
- Nasal congestion
- Blurred vision
- Priapism
- Loss of hearing loss
The above effects are commonly reported by users. Let’s take a look at specific effects, possible reasons and how to manage the effects.
#1 Can Cialis cause high blood pressure?
Though Cialis is considered to be safe, there is a possibility of some effects on blood pressure. Here is a quick look:
- Cialis can cause a slight decrease in blood pressure in some individuals. Remember, it does not increase, but decreases blood pressure levels slightly.
- Cialis when taken with certain medications used to treat high blood pressure, can cause a drop in blood pressure.
- Patients with existing conditions, such as heart disease or severe hypertension, may need to be cautious when using Cialis.
#2 What are the side effects of Cialis that affect the eyes and vision?
There is the possibility of vision related effects from Cialis, but these are rare and do not affect everyone:
- Some users have experienced temporary blurring of vision.
- People have reported changes in color vision, with difficulty in differentiating between blue and green colors.
- Extremely rare cases of sudden vision loss has also been reported.
- Patients with a history of vision problems or eye conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, should seek special advice before using Cialis.
#3 Can Cialis cause heartburn?
Some individuals may experience heartburn when on Cialis. This is a burning sensation in the chest, due to reflux of stomach acid. This is a common gastrointestinal side effects linked to certain medications, including Cialis. Here are tips on reducing the possibility of heartburn when on Cialis.
- It is better to take Cialis with a meal as this will reduce the possibility of heartburn. Food in the stomach will reduce the chances of acid reflux.
- Avoid taking certain foods and beverages that may cause heartburn. For example, spicy foods, fatty foods, citrus fruits, coffee, and carbonated beverages.
- Remain in upright position for at least half an hour after taking Cialis and food. This will prevent stomach acid from entering back as reflux.
- Use of over-the-counter antacids can give relief from heartburn. But, if you are on other medications, take expert advice, as antacids may affect other medications.
- If heartburn is experienced in the nights, sleep with your head at a higher level. This can help reduce reflux slightly.
#4 Can Cialis cause heart attack?
Cialis and all PDE5 inhibitors have been linked to a slight increase in heart related complications in some people. However, this risk is generally low, and most men on Cialis have been using it safely without heart problems. Here is a look at possible reasons:
- Users with pre-existing heart conditions may be at risk of experiencing heart related complications. This includes pre-existing conditions like coronary artery disease, angina, heart failure, or recent heart attack/stroke.
- Cialis is not to be taken with certain medications that are used as treatment for heart conditions. For example, nitrates and alpha-blockers. This combination can cause a drop in blood pressure, resulting in serious complications.
Users experiencing specific symptoms are to take treatment at the earliest. For example, chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness could be signs of a serious cardiovascular event. Users are to quickly identify these symptoms and take treatment accordingly. It is necessary to use Cialis only on prescription and only as per the recommended dosages.