Cialis, generic name Tadalafil, is a widely prescribed medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is a member of the class of drugs that suppress phosphodiesterase type 5, and it works by increasing the blood supply to the penis while relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder at the same time.
Common Side Effects
Like any medication, Cialis may have a number of side effects, some more severe than others. As seen in clinical trials and patient testimonials, the most common side effects of Cialis are:
1. Headaches
Headaches are one of the most commonly encountered side effects of Cialis. It most frequently results from the blood vessels dilating as a physiological phenomenon that, by enlarging blood vessels to the penis in order to alleviate ED, also causes more pressure in the vessels inside the skull and in some users this causes headaches.
2. Flushing
Cialis users, in turn, report flushing-a flushing that can be described as warm and accompanied by skin tingling on the face, neck or chest. It is also due to the vasodilation and transient alteration of blood flow, both characteristic of this response.
3. Indigestion
Digestion is another well-known side-effect associated with Cialis. Some individuals experience stomach pain or dyspepsia, which could have been caused by something the drug did to the enzymes in the gut. Further, it may result in bloating, heartburn or general indigestion.
4. Back Pain
Backache is one of the most common Cialis side effects. It usually comes in the form of low backache or muscle pain, but in any case, most people who report it say it tends to begin manifesting within 12–24 hours of ingesting.
5. Muscle Pain
Muscle pains, like back pains, can occur in many places around the body. For some users, they might experience minor but otherwise manageable muscle pains. It is assumed to be related to the drug’s action in terms of blood flow and muscle responsiveness.
6. Nasal Congestion
Another potential side effect in other men is nasal congestion, a stuffy or runny nose that is easily mistaken for seasonal allergies or a cold. Such symptoms are normal in patients who take medications that expand blood vessels.
7. Dizziness
Cialis users also experience dizziness. They can experience dizziness, tremors, or mildly dizzy sensations when they get up suddenly from a seated or lying position. The lowering of blood pressure or altered blood flow, which can be traced to the medication’s vasodilatory effects, may explain this response.
Less Relatively Common But Dangerous Side Effects.
While most of us are fine with Cialis, you do need to be on the lookout for rarer, more severe adverse effects. These can occur, but must get a doctor’s attention straight away:
Priapism: A Medical Emergency
One of the most common side effects of Cialis is priapism, and this is a unwanted side effect: you have an erection lasting over four hours. The erection hurts and can permanently damage your penis if not treated promptly. For priapism, which is considered a medical emergency, treatment must occur immediately to return normal blood flow and alleviate pain. If you or anyone else feels like an erection continues for longer than four hours after taking Cialis, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately in order to avoid irreversible harm.
Sudden Hearing Loss
A third, though unlikely, adverse effect is unintentional hearing loss. Some Cialis users report having immediate loss of hearing or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). No relationship exists between Tadalafil and the above-mentioned symptoms, but they do reveal a need for greater listening care among patients taking the drug. If you are taking Cialis, and your hearing abruptly stops working, it’s time to contact a doctor.
Vision Loss: A Cause for Fear?
Other side effects of Cialis include changes in the eyes, however slight and very rare; these, too, are a cause for concern. NAION (non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy) have also been known to lead to sudden blindness in one or both eyes, and in some cases total blindness. When your vision changes abruptly, contact your doctor as soon as possible. This can give a doctor the chance to recognize this in your symptoms and make any necessary interventions.
Allergic Reactions: Symptoms
Although uncommon, reactions to Cialis can be serious enough to warrant medical attention right away. The signs and symptoms include rash, itchiness, swelling, and difficulty in breathing. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction to Cialis, it will be wise to seek immediate emergency assistance. Allergies can turn into serious infections within minutes; early intervention saves lives.
When to Seek Help
Side effects, especially if they are mild, will likely pass naturally as your body adjusts to the drug. But if your side effects persist or intensify, talk to your doctor. Also, if you experience any of the severe side effects noted above, call 911.
Precautions and Drug Interactions
Getting your full medical record checked by your doctor before taking Cialis is essential. Some conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney disease may affect this medication’s use.
Further, Cialis interacts with some medications, especially those that contain nitrates (often used to treat chest pain or heart problems), and this may cause fatal drops in blood pressure.
Conclusion:
In a nutshell, Cialis is one of the common drugs used for treating ED and BPH, and it’s effective enough. The drug, for the most part, is safe, but adverse effects may and must be experienced. Should you experience any side effects or have anxiety while using Cialis, be sure to speak with your physician directly without hesitation. When used properly and under the guidance of an expert, Cialis has the potential to transform sexual health and hence life quality.
