Viagra: "The Magic Blue Pill for Men" 

Many aging men may experience Erectile Dysfunction, (the disease Bob Dole has) or  impotence. The very thought of this  physical condition causes men to panic; fearing inability to perform. 
The drug Viagra,  may help some men with this physical condition.

Even in remote villages around the world,  news of Viagra has spread. It is a drug used to treat impotency in men. However, there are many facts that one should know about this drug before one takes it.

One:    Viagra is not a hormone or aphrodisiac. It is a prescription medication that may improve erectile dysfunction. One should not take it without a doctor's prescription.

Two:    Viagra helps to improve the male's response to sexual stimulation by increasing the blood flow to the penis to maintain an erection. However, if the most important organ of your body is not working (the brain) than the pill will not work. A male needs to be sexually stimulated for Viagra to work.

Three:    When one takes Viagra, an erection does not happen immediately. It may take up to 30 minutes to an hour for the drug to work. You have to plan when you are going to have an intimate relationship with your significant other. 

Four:      Viagra does not prevent sexually transmitted disease, HIV or AIDS. One must always practice safe sex, no matter how old you are.

Before taking  Viagra have a complete medical examination to find the underlying cause of the  erectile dysfunction. There may be physical changes due to prostate cancer, heart disease or diabetes or  other physical problems. A Urologist would best determine if Viagra is the most suitable method to help your erectile dysfunction.

Men who are currently taking medicines that contain NITRATES, such as NITROGLYCERIN should not use Viagra because these drugs taken together can lower the blood pressure too much.

The most common side effects of Viagra are: headache, flushing, upset stomach, stuffy nose, urinary tract infections,  mild and temporary changes in vision such as increased sensitivity to light, diarrhea and priapism ( the painful opposite of erectile dysfunction, when the penis is hard for long periods of time). If you experience any of these side effects stop the drug immediately and notify your doctor.

The drug is usually taken one tablet once a day, about one hour before sexual activity. However, Viagra may be taken anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity.
                
NATURAL ALTERNATIVES

Changing your lifestyle to a more healthy one may be a lot cheaper and healthier than taking Viagra. One should evaluate their alcohol, and tobacco use. Have sex in the morning as oppose to having sex at night. People are able to perform better when they are well rested. Sometimes depression may cause lack of desire. Speak with your partner about your feelings. It is always best to communicate and share. Don't be ashamed if you fear that you may be experiencing this problem. Remember, if Bob Dole can talk about Erectile Dysfunction on national television surely you can speak to your partner or to your doctor about it. It is important to maintain an active and healthy sexual life. That is one of the secrets to longevity.