Viagra

Disclaimer: This self-check questionnaire is for informational purposes only and does not provide a diagnosis or replace medical advice. If you have doubts about erectile dysfunction (ED), medication safety, or your overall health, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Viagra (sildenafil) is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Before considering its use—whether at home, during Travel, or at a Resort—it’s important to evaluate your symptoms, risk factors, and overall health. Use the checklist below as a structured self-assessment.

Questionnaire

• Have you experienced difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection for at least 3 months?
• Do erection problems occur in more than 50% of sexual attempts?
• Has there been a recent increase in stress, anxiety, or relationship issues?
• Do you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease?
• Are you currently taking nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) or medications for chest pain?
• Do you use alpha-blockers or medications for prostate problems?
• Have you noticed reduced sexual desire (low libido) along with erection issues?
• Do you smoke, consume excessive alcohol, or use recreational drugs?
• Have you had recent pelvic surgery or trauma?
• Do you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness during sexual activity?
• Are you over the age of 40 with additional cardiovascular risk factors?
• Have you tried lifestyle changes (exercise, weight loss, stress management) without improvement?
• Do you experience morning erections less frequently than before?
• Have you ever had vision or hearing disturbances after taking similar medications?
• Are you seeking medication primarily for performance enhancement without a confirmed ED problem?

How to interpret answers

Low reason to seek help:
You answered “yes” mainly to temporary stress-related or situational factors, with no chronic diseases or medication risks. Consider lifestyle adjustments and monitoring. A routine consultation with a primary care doctor may still be helpful.

Medium reason to seek help:
You reported persistent symptoms (3+ months) or have risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or smoking. Schedule an appointment with a general practitioner or urologist to discuss erectile dysfunction treatment options, including whether sildenafil is appropriate.

High reason to seek help:
You have heart disease, use nitrates, experience chest pain during intimacy, or report significant side effects from similar drugs. Seek prompt medical evaluation before considering Viagra or any ED medication. Immediate care is required for severe chest pain or sudden vision/hearing loss.

Next steps: what to do

1. Track symptoms: Note frequency, severity, and circumstances of erection difficulties.
2. Record health data: Blood pressure, blood sugar (if diabetic), weight, and medications.
3. Review lifestyle factors: Sleep quality, stress levels, alcohol intake, and physical activity.
4. Consult the right specialist: Start with a primary care physician; they may refer you to a urologist, cardiologist, or endocrinologist.
5. Prepare questions: Ask about drug interactions, safe dosage, timing, and alternative treatments.
6. Discuss mental health: Anxiety and depression can contribute to ED; therapy may help.
7. Avoid unsafe purchases: Do not buy ED medications from unverified online sources or while abroad without a prescription. See our Uncategorized health resources for guidance on safe medication practices.

Situation → urgency → action

Situation	Urgency	Action
Mild, occasional difficulty linked to stress	Low	Monitor, improve lifestyle, routine doctor visit
Persistent ED for 3+ months	Medium	Schedule medical consultation for evaluation
ED with diabetes or hypertension	Medium–High	Medical review before starting sildenafil
Use of nitrates or chest pain during sex	High	Do NOT use Viagra; seek urgent medical advice
Sudden vision/hearing loss after medication	Emergency	Seek immediate medical care

FAQ

1. What is Viagra used for?

Viagra (sildenafil) treats erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.

2. How long does sildenafil last?

Its effects typically last 4–6 hours, though this varies by individual health, age, and dosage.

3. Can I take Viagra daily?

Some individuals may use it regularly under medical supervision, but dosage and frequency should be determined by a doctor.

4. Is Viagra safe for heart patients?

It may be unsafe for those taking nitrates or with unstable heart disease. A cardiology evaluation is recommended.

5. Are there side effects?

Common side effects include headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. Rare but serious effects include sudden vision or hearing loss.

6. Does Viagra increase sexual desire?

No. It improves erectile response but does not directly increase libido.

7. Can lifestyle changes improve ED without medication?

Yes. Exercise, weight management, quitting smoking, and stress reduction can significantly improve symptoms.

8. Is it safe to combine Viagra with alcohol?

Excessive alcohol can reduce effectiveness and increase side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure.

9. Can I use it while traveling?

Carry a valid prescription and check local regulations. Avoid purchasing medication from unofficial vendors.

Sources

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Sildenafil Prescribing Information.
• American Urological Association (AUA) – Guidelines on Erectile Dysfunction.
• European Association of Urology (EAU) – Male Sexual Dysfunction Guidelines.
• Mayo Clinic – Erectile Dysfunction Overview.
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Erectile Dysfunction.