Side Effects of Erectile Dysfunction Medications

Erectile dysfunction affects nearly half of all men 40 years of age and older.

Due to their popularity, many men who face erectile dysfunction turn to erectile dysfunction medications to combat their sexual health issues.

But, like most things, there’s the other side of the coin—the side-effects—that may come up from ingesting an ED drug. Prescription pills are a one-size-fits-all solution to a highly unique set of underlying causes that men experience.

For this reason, patients with sexual impotence who are seeking a chance to have a healthy sex life once again should avoid ED pills and opt for a customized erectile dysfunction treatment plan that is based around a specialized diagnosis on a case-by-case basis.

With this in mind, here are some side effects of sex pills to be aware of.

Different Types of ED Medications

While erectile dysfunction medications are similar, there are variances in their chemical makeup that brand each of them slightly different. This includes how long they will wear off, the potential side effects, and how quickly these meds take effect.

Sildenafil (Viagra) – 

This is best consumed one hour before sex and if you’re diagnosed with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. Takes effect for 4 to 5 hours.

Tadalafil (Cialis) – 

Best consumed one to two hours before sex and is effective for 36 hours. Can adjust the dosage as necessary.

Vardenafil (Levitra) – 

Best consumed one hour before sex and takes effect for 4 to 5 hours. Also has another form that dissolves in the mouth that can work more quickly compared to the pill version.

Avanafil (Stendra) – 

Takes 30 minutes to be in effect. Can last up to 6 hours.

Side Effects of ED Pill Medications 

Visual Changes

There have been some reports of people getting visual changes as a side effect of taking erectile dysfunction drugs. These visual changes come in several forms, from blurry vision and light sensitivity to difficulty deciphering blue from green objects.

When you take an ED pill, there is a sudden increase in blood flow that is sent to various parts of your body via your veins. This can reach the eyes, and as a result, cause adverse effects to the fragile blood vessels and delicate tissue surrounding this body part.

In addition to this, if you have genetic diseases that affect your eye, you may be predisposed to experience severe symptoms when taking an ED pill as well. In particular, conditions such as Retinitis Pigmentosa and Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy can exacerbate symptomatic effects in the eye. The most severe case is vision loss.

Headaches

Headaches are one of the most common side effects of ED drugs. This is caused by the build-up of nitric oxide in the bloodstream, causing your body’s blood vessels to dilate, inflaming parts of your brain and resulting in migraines.

According to research, 1 in 4 men who take sildenafil (Viagra) experience headaches (most notably cluster headaches) as a side effect. These headaches manifest in bouts and can last for weeks to months and can enter a stage of remission for a few months to several years.

Flushes

Flushes, or blotches of redness appearing in the skin, are the most common side effect of ingesting erectile dysfunction drugs like Viagra. It occurs in 30.8% of patients.

These red patches appear mostly around your face. However, they can also manifest in other parts of your body. They can appear as mild or severe cases, from temporary blotchy skin to rashes.

Back Aches

It may seem odd to discover that one of the side effects of ED medications is backaches, but many men who suffer from erectile dysfunction also complain about having lower back pain.

One explanation for this is due to age. As a man gets older, his testosterone levels fall and so does his muscle mass. A decline in muscle mass can result in restricted mobility and reduced body strength. Usually, over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms, but definitely get a doctor’s approval before trying out something new.

Gainswave is the way to GO!

ED pills may successfully treat erectile dysfunction temporarily, by relaxing vessels in the penis, allowing more blood to flow in. But, a few hours later, the man is back in that deflated boat. 

 GAINSWave shockwave therapy treats the condition at the source of the problem. The procedure clears out the plaque in one’s blood, as well as creates new and healthy blood vessels. As a result, a man’s blood flow is improved and his erections last longer and are healthier. 

The safe and non-invasive procedure requires just a few fifteen minute visits to the Optimal Health office. Best of all, science proves GAINSWave is effective. 

ED Treatments at Optimal Health

If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction or another common sexual dysfunction, you don’t have to go through it alone. Consult Knoxville, Tennessee’s most recommended ED clinic for safe and effective ED treatments

At Optimal Health Regenerative Aesthetics Medical, our highly trained team can offer several therapies to treat ED, including the P-Shot® and GAINSWave™ Therapy. These state of the art treatments are used together, to maximize results.

Though these treatments are effective at treating ED, you do not have to have ED in order to be able to receive these therapies, and anyone will see improvements after treatment.

Contact our Knoxville office today by clicking here to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Can a Marriage Survive Without Intimacy?

The foundation of any healthy relationship is built on communication, respect, and trust. For many, sexual satisfaction is an integral part of married life. Yet, this depends solely on the people in the relationship and what elements are essential to their happiness. 

In a survey conducted by Pew Research Center, 61% of respondents cite satisfactory sex as an important part of marriage. 

A fulfilling marital sex life is possible between married couples of any age, and a marriage can survive without intimacy. However, some men may find their sexual performance hindered by erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the chronic inability to maintain or achieve an erection for sexual intercourse.

Causes of ED

While many men of all ages currently suffer from ED, there can be a variety of similarities among sufferers. ED can have both physical and psychological causes.

Some physical causes of ED include:

In addition to physical causes, mentality and emotion can also play a considerable role in causing some cases of ED.

Some psychological causes for ED include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Relationship issues

Understanding the cause of your ED can help you identify possible treatment options. By speaking with a medical professional, you can learn more about the basis of your condition while also learning about your candidacy for various treatments.

Communication is Fundamental to any marriage.

Communication is an essential element of any marriage. The ability to freely share your feelings, concerns, and accomplishments can contribute to marital satisfaction.

If a man is suffering from ED, they should be able to discuss these concerns with their partner. This is often the first step toward seeking treatment.

Some of the ways to begin this conversation include:

  • Being open and honest
  • Having an unrestrained conversation about sexual desires and expectations
  • Allowing ample time for both sides to express their emotions
  • Discussing needs and preferences

A healthy sex life is an important part of many marriages. You do not have to forfeit your ability to engage in sexual activity because of an ED diagnosis.

Options For Relieving ED

Sometimes, ED can be easily managed through a series of small lifestyle changes. 

Men just beginning to seek treatment for their condition may find these changes to be the end of their issues.

To relieve symptoms, a man with ED can:

  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Reduce caloric intake
  • Exercise
  • Get enough sleep
  • Eat foods low in fat but high in protein

A medical professional at Optimal Health can name other options for treating ED other than those listed here- like Gainswave. I think Dr. Brown would prefer to link to an article directly from Gaisnwave or Vitality Connect – the company that greated the brand/…?  This link appears to be another clinic that offers Gainswave.

Conventional Treatments For ED

The most popular form of treatment for ED, is VIAGRA®. However, men who are taking nitrate-based medications are not candidates for many male enhancement supplements because it can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Additionally, these drugs also come with a risk of dependence, since many men will continue to take them for years at a time rather than seek longer-lasting treatment options.

Consider GAINSWave® Therapy

Traditional treatments for ED can provide temporary, short-term restoration of one’s libido and the ability to maintain an erection. But, there are alternative ED treatments that can provide a wide range of improvements for adult men of all ages and give you lasting results without pills.

Among the alternative ED treatments is a low-intensity soundwave treatment called GAINSWave® therapy. 

GAINSWave® therapy is a simple, non-invasive, painless way to restore sexual function. It uses high frequency, low-intensity sound waves to increase blood flow to the penis. GAINSWave® therapy goes a step further by stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and penile tissue. 

Gainswave Treatment at Optimal Health

If you’ve been living with erectile dysfunction and you’re ready to seek treatment and improve your life and sexual well-being, be sure to reach out to our team at Optimal Health Regenerative Aesthetics located in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Our doctors, along with their experienced clinical staff, can help you find the right ED treatment for you.

We’ve been providing Turkey Creek Knoxville residents with quality ED treatments and results for years, so you can feel confident knowing your treatment plan is in the right hands. 

For more information about our GAINSWave® erectile dysfunction treatment or to schedule a consultation with us, CLICK HERE to conveniently contact Optimal Health today. 

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on how GAINSwave® works in more detail.

Understanding your Joint Pain.

Understanding your Joint Pain

Do you have more trouble getting dressed or penning handwritten notes than you once did? Are you having trouble keeping up with basic demands of your job? Do you look for excuses to withdraw from some of your favorite activities simply because it hurts to move? 

Joint pain can turn even the most routine tasks into dreaded chores — or make them totally impossible to perform at all. You need to address this issue before it gets so bad that you can’t do anything. Fortunately, you can get much of the help you need through physical therapy and without drugs or surgery.

Understanding Joint Pain

If you’ve ever ruptured a joint ligament or fractured a bone in a joint, you probably experienced a lot of pain over a set, limited time period. This is known as acute joint pain. But in some ways, chronic joint pain can be much more debilitating as it haunts you for months after month, and year after year. This kind of joint pain is commonly caused or worsened by:

Osteoarthritis –

Osteoarthritis is a progressive, usually age-related degeneration of the cartilage that normally cushions a joint’s bone ends.

Rheumatoid arthritis – 

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by abnormal immune system responses that attack the linings of joints, producing bouts of swelling, pain, stiffness, and joint damage.

Non-ergonomic working conditions – 

An improperly-positioned workstation or other awkward workplace arrangements can force your body into stressful, painful positions.

Excess weight – 

The heavier you are, the more pressure your weight-bearing joints must withstand. These pressures can lead to premature joint deterioration and joint tissue strain.

Musculoskeletal imbalances –

If your muscles suffer from uneven development, you may be unable to sustain a symmetrical posture. This can create muscle spasms and trigger points that refer pain to the joints.

Degenerative disc disease – 

Age-related bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and other spinal changes can cause serious joint pain in the neck or back.

How Joint Pain Hurts Your Life

Joint pain isn’t just annoying; it can be downright disabling or even dangerous. If, for example, you can’t reliably turn your head to see traffic, you could easily end up in an auto accident. Stiff joints that affect stance and gait can increase your risk of falls. Simply buttoning your shirt, cooking a meal, or writing a check may be beyond you. Joint pain needs to be slowed, arrested, or reversed so you can continue to live the life you want. 

Treating Your Joint Pain

Most people assume that with age comes discomfort, but aging itself does not necessarily cause joint pain. When everyday tasks, such as bathing, walking or even opening a jar become difficult or painful, you should seek medical attention. You do not need to accept a lesser quality of life simply because you have grown older.

Numerous non-surgical treatments are available which can allow you to live life more comfortably, but it’s important to first get a diagnosis from a medical professional. 

Because most people cannot tell the difference between pain from an inflamed joint or a torn tendon, your physician will need to evaluate your symptoms and your health history to determine the source of the problem and plan a course of treatment.

People with joint pain are frequently diagnosed with osteoarthritis – commonly known as arthritis – which is chronic inflammation of the joints. Your physician may suggest certain supplements that can reduce pain and swelling, or prescribe physical therapy or specific exercises to lessen pressure on the joints. Prescription medications and surgery may also be options, but initially, less aggressive approaches often bring relief.

In addition to arthritis, other conditions can cause chronic pain, including tendinitis, nerve compression, cartilage or tendon tears, obesity and general deconditioning.  

Today’s medical advancements offer proven treatment options that help manage your pain so you can participate in the activities you enjoy. 

Most cases of joint pain will respond to conservative, non-surgical forms of care. 

That’s where our physicians at Optimal Health Regenerative Aesthetics Medical, in Knoxville, Tennessee shine. We offer various non-surgical pain management therapies like Regenerative therapy to help patients who are dealing with all types of conditions, such as: knee pain, joint pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain, sciatic nerve pain, arthritis in the knee and much more. 

So, if you’re tired of constant chronic joint pain and weary from the impact of limited mobility. And even more tired of the addictive pain medications and the physical and emotional toll on your body, then turn to our dedicated team of healthcare professionals at Optimal Health. We’re a team that consists of Medical Doctors, Nurse practitioners, Chiropractic Physicians and Physical Rehabilitation Professionals. And we’re all trained in the most advanced and cutting edge treatments for acute and chronic joint pain.

Our goal is to help the residents of Knoxville live quality, pain-free lives. And our holistic approach gives us the ability to offer a large variety of treatments. 

So if you’re ready to get out of pain and you’re looking for a rejuvenating experience that will vastly improve your quality of life, then contact us today to set up your FREE consultation by clicking here. Or call us directly at 865-288-4200. While you’re here! Check out what people are saying about their Optimal Health care!

Relieve Joint Pain With The Help Of These Foods.

Relieve Joint Pain With The Help Of These Foods

It’s no secret that chronic inflammation is bad news! It’s been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and Alzheimer’s. It can also worsen autoimmune diseases, arthritis, food allergies, and other issues and conditions. But the good news is, we can do a lot to manage joint pain through what we eat. So let’s dig in and go over which foods can help you fight joint pain.

Less Wheat, Less Sugar

You may not be happy to hear it, but wheat and sugar are big contributors to inflammation and joint pain. 

They also block the absorption of beneficial nutrients and minerals from other foods.

Following a diet low in processed foods and refined sugar and high in whole foods will help you prevent, reverse or manage conditions like type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

The Benefits of Whole Food

Simply put, whole food has one ingredient – the food itself.

For example, beans, nuts, fish, and any fruit or vegetable would be considered a whole food, whereas anything that comes in a box or package has more than one ingredient and is likely processed. 

Anything that’s processed is more difficult for our bodies to digest, and can contribute to sore joints and inflammation.

Without further ado, here are eight foods that help relieve soreness, inflammation, and joint pain.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eating foods that are naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids like wild salmon, wild sardines, tuna, anchovies, and other cold-water fish increases the production of type 3 prostaglandins which act against cellular degeneration and inflammation. 

If you don’t like fish, take a fish oil supplement, which has also been shown to reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. 

Hemp seeds, chia seeds, and many nuts are also a source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Nuts

Nuts are a healthy source of fat that fight inflammation and help keep joints lubricated. 

Walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios, and almonds are especially good. 

Fruits and Vegetables

Many fruits and vegetables contain anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to being loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.

Oranges, grapefruits, limes, and pineapples are rich in vitamin C, which can decrease pain and swelling in arthritis.

Broccoli, spinach, lettuce, kale, and cabbage are all rich in vitamin K, which reduces inflammation in the blood. Kale is a superfood with vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and flavonoids which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. 

Anthocyanins found in cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries have been proven to have a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When it comes to oils, you want to stick with extra virgin olive oil. But what does “extra virgin” actually mean? 

Olive oil is made from pressing olives – the extra virgin part means the oil was extracted using a cold-pressed method (no heat or chemicals), so it has the most polyphenols and micronutrients. 

That’s the kind you want, as it has the most health benefits. Cook with it on low to moderate heat, or use it raw as a salad dressing, blended with herbs as a vegetable dip.

Turmeric

Studies have shown that the spice turmeric (or more specifically its powerful active ingredient curcumin) significantly reduces pain and swelling because of its strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Start cooking with turmeric, or taking a curcumin extract or supplement.

Ginger

Research has proven ginger’s medicinal compound gingerol to be a powerful joint-relief remedy. 

What makes ginger so effective is that it turns off the genes that cause age-related inflammation (much like curcumin), as well as breaks down existing inflammation within the joints. 

Unfortunately, drinking ginger ale doesn’t count. Use ginger more in your cooking, or take a gingerol extract or supplement.

Garlic 

In addition to being antiviral and antibacterial (which makes garlic a great cold-fighter), garlic has been shown to both protect against inflammation and enhance immune cell activity.

Bone Broth

Bone broth is another cold-fighter that has a high mineral content and lots of collagen-rich protein. 

Collagen is highly beneficial for skin, joint health, and any soft muscle like the bladder and digestive organs.

So start saving your chicken bones in the freezer to make a big pot of bone broth!

More Healthy Eating Tips

Improving the quality of what you eat will improve how you feel.

Here are some additional tips for healthy eating:

  • Eat non-GMO foods as much as possible
  • Eat organic 
  • Buy local (they’re less likely to contain pesticides, preservatives, and antibiotics
  • Cook at home more 

Joint Pain Relief at Optimal Health

At Optimal Health, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, we do not practice “band-aid” medicine, nor do we attempt to “cover-up” your joint pain symptoms. We’re going to get to the bottom of your pain, and then we’re going to handle it!

We use powerful, yet gentle holistic treatment plans that support your entire body and are designed to help you recover from the true underlying causes of your joint pain.

Come experience what it’s like to be truly cared for by Turkey Creeks’s best medical providers who are kind, gentle, supportive, and completely dedicated to your health and wellness!

To learn more about how our Regenerative and Aesthetic Therapy treatment options can help your joint pain, contact us today by clicking here. Or give us a call directly at 865-288-4200 to schedule your FREE consultation!