Question:
This question should probably be posted in the other prostate cancer
forum, but there is not enough traffic there. So, I pose this question
here.
Viagra was developed as a hbp drug, and it ability to encourage
erections was discovered accidently. I assume that it does lower blood
pressure. Does that mean that men with lower blood pressure have a better
chance of regaining erectile function after RP than those with a higher
blood pressure? I had an RP on 5/1/02. One nerve was spared. I slowly
regained erectile function, first with the help of Viagra about 5 months
post and then to some extent without 9 months post. Now Viagra improves
things, but if my libido is strong enough I can do without. Those are
obviously good results, and the reason I mention them is as preliminary to
stating that I have always had low pressure. Is there a relationship? (I
am now 66)
Answer:
I don't know any more than you do about it, but I can make some guesses.
I doubt that blood pressure per se has much to do with it. But if
you have high blood pressure, you may also have other cardiovascular
problems which could lead to impotence, even without an RP. Also, some
blood pressure medications can themselves have some sexual performance
side effects, although probably not to any great degree. So if one is
concerned about impotence, one should try to keep one's blood pressure
under control by controlling weight and getting regular exercise, if
possible. If not, one should use a blood pressure reducing medication
but in choosing it, ask your doctor about possible effects on impotence.
