Get checked… this may not be just a sex problem

MEN, there is nothing to be embarrassed about if you need to seek help from your GP for erectile dysfunction. We won’t be embarrassed, shocked, surprised or judgmental.

We want to know because it’s not just about sex. In fact ED can be related to other conditions such as diabetes.

If you really cannot face us, try a pharmacist instead. Many chemists offer an erectile dysfunction service and can safely prescribe Viagra, as well as other options. Here is a selection of the common questions asked at my surgery…

CAN I GET VIAGRA ON THE NHS?

YES, GPs can prescribe the drug to anyone they feel needs it and can safely use it. The usual prescription would be four to eight tablets a month. GPs are also able to prescribe a range of ED treatments from pills to devices, as well as safely ensuring the ED is not a sign of another condition.

CAN’T I JUST BUY THE PILLS ONLINE?

BUYING medication online, for any condition, exposes you to the danger of purchasing counterfeits – these can be useless, or contain ingredients that could be dangerous.

You are also missing the crucial step of a consultation with a GP or pharmacist. This is imperative: firstly, some men have ED due to a testosterone deficiency and if they take Viagra it will not help. An initial blood test will show this and the ED would be corrected with testosterone.

In other men, ED may actually be an early symptom of cardiovascular issues or type 2 diabetes. Finally, Viagra is not safe for all men due to underlying conditions or other medication they take.

WHO CAN’T TAKE IT?

VIAGRA should not be used by men who have recently had a stroke or a heart attack, with low blood pressure or those with certain eye conditions.

Guidelines recommend cautiously prescribing it for men with any penile disorders, stomach ulcers or heart disease so again this should be evaluated with a GP.

It may be prescribed at a low dose for those with liver and kidney disease.