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How Does Viagra Help With ED?

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Viagra is likely the most written-about drug in the last 25 years and for a good reason. This medication gave the baby boomers from the 60s and 70s, plus many other men, a lifeline if they developed erectile dysfunction. But how exactly does Viagra help men with ED?

Schedule a one-on-one erectile dysfunction consultation with our highly-trained urologists if you want to learn more about treatment options. Call our urology clinic in Pittsburgh, PA today by calling (412) 372-6330.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is the persistent inability to achieve and then maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It is a frustrating and depressing condition for millions of men.

man holding viagra.

There are a myriad of reasons why a man may have erectile dysfunction. There may be emotional, psychological, or physical reasons.

How Does Viagra Help?

The little blue pill, Viagra, helps ED with one of the physical issues. Viagra (or its generic namesake Sildenafil) increases blood flow to the penis which is one of the requirements for an erection.

When a man is aroused, the body releases nitric oxide, a molecule that triggers an erection. However, a protein or enzyme known as PDE5 intervenes and blocks the messages to achieve the erection. Viagra is a PDE5 Inhibitor, so it obstructs the enzyme and allows the erection to occur.

It improves firmness, frequency, and maintenance, and it is most effective for mild to moderate ED.

Viagra is also effective for ED caused by diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and prostate surgery.

Basic and Cautionary Facts About Viagra

FDA-approved for men over the age of 18, there are some important facts to know if you are considering Viagra for erectile dysfunction treatment.

  • Viagra only works if a man is sexually aroused.
  • Take Viagra one hour before sexual activity.
  • Only take one pill per day.
  • The drug comes in doses of 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. Only take the recommended dosage provided by our urologists based on your age and general health.
  • Viagra works within one hour but can take between 30 minutes to 4 hours to have an effect. In some, its effects can last up to 12 hours.
  • You may get multiple erections during this time, but an erection should never last longer than 4 hours. If this happens, get medical attention immediately.
  • It is best to take Viagra on an empty stomach. Avoid fatty foods, excessive alcohol, and marijuana.
  • There are some common side effects like headache, flushing, abnormal vision, and cold-like symptoms, plus others that can be serious. Talk with our urologists about all possible side effects before taking Viagra.

Contact our experienced urologists at (412) 372-6330 if you are having issues getting and keeping an erection. Our urology clinic in Pittsburgh, PA offers a comprehensive list of treatment options for erectile dysfunction—schedule an appointment to explore options that could be right for you.

Recurring UTIs: When To See A Urologist

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A urinary tract infection, or UTI, can affect any part of your urinary system. Although it can happen to anyone no matter their age, they seem to impact women more than men. When they keep coming back or recurring, you need to seek answers. If you are getting recurring UTIs when seeing our highly trained urologists could be a critical factor in preventing future cases. Contact our urology clinic in Pittsburgh, PA today by calling (412) 372-6330.

Don’t Ignore The Early Signs

Most cases of urinary tract infections can be treated with a short course of antibiotics. The problem arises when those signs are ignored or someone does not realize that they have autoimmune issues.

If the infection is in the bladder, it becomes easy to treat. If it enters the kidneys, there can be serious consequences and hospitalization might be required.

Urinary Tract Infection - Doctor with chalkboard and text on white background.

Some early signs of a UTI include the following:

  • Frequent urination
  • Urinating frequently but in small amounts
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Cloudy urine
  • Strong smelling urine
  • Red, pink, or brown urine indicating blood

If you have any combination of these symptoms, make an appointment with our urologist.

Possible Complications From An Untreated UTI

Some may think a urinary tract infection is no big deal, and it will just pass. The opposite is true. It is a big deal and there are significant complications that can arise.

If the infection affects the kidneys, it can lead to not only infection but kidney disease and kidney damage. Signs of this complication include a high fever of over 101, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and chills. There may even be mental disorientation.

If the infection enters the bloodstream, you can develop sepsis. This is a life-threatening complication of infection.

Preventing Recurring UTIs

There are ways to prevent a urinary tract infection especially those that recur.

  • Drink lots of water
  • Urinate immediately after sexual intercourse to help flush out the bladder
  • Drink water before and after sexual intercourse
  • Always wipe from front to back when urinating or moving your bowels to keep bacteria from spreading
  • Talk with your physician about changing your birth control method
  • Avoid deodorant sprays, douches, and powders that can irritate the urethra

If you have had a UTI three times in the last year, that is considered recurring, it is time to see a urologist like the ones at our urology clinic in Pittsburgh, PA.

Dr. Halenda Retirement Announcement

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After 33 years of impeccable service, excellent patient care, and never-ending dedication, Gregory Halenda, MD will be retiring from Suburban Urologic Associates as of 12/31/2023. He will be greatly missed by his staff, peers and patients of Monroeville and surrounding areas.

Suburban Urologic is also pleased to announce the addition of Albert A. Geskin, MD. Dr. Geskin is an experienced urologist and will be available to accept all of Dr. Halenda’s patients.

If you are scheduled with Dr. Halenda after Jan 1, 2024, please contact the office at 412-372-6330 to move your appointment to Dr. Geskin’s schedule or any of our other providers.

We thank you for your relationship with Dr. Halenda over all the past years and we look forward to continuing it with all our providers.

Sincerely,

Suburban Urologic Associates

Natural Ways To Prevent Kidney Stones

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If you have experienced the excruciating pain of passing a kidney stone, you remember it well. You are probably aware that once you have one, there is a strong likelihood you will have another. Not a very comforting thought, but there are some natural ways to prevent kidney stones. Keep reading to discover some easy preventative methods.

Continue reading “Natural Ways To Prevent Kidney Stones” →