Question:
I know of at least two cases here in Alberta where erectile
dysfunction has caused suicides.
Just curious .. Could erectile dysfunction be an effect of PTSD? And
if so, would Viagra be a potential remedy when there are clearly other
psychological issues to deal with? I ask in view of the fact that,
according to DND's own figures, 20% of those returning from PK duty
experience some degree of PTSD. If the answer to the above questions is
yes, I would think that might drive the percentage of males in the CF who
are medically indicated for Viagra to a level well beyond the norm for the
male population at large.
Answer:
That's an interesting point. I admit I don't know alot about
PTSD. I have heard of cases where sexual performance was
indicated...(as stress can effect the smooth muscle response in the
human body (hence heart burn, palpitations etc.), and as erectile
tissue is paritally smooth muscle)
If I understand the mechanism Viagra uses properly, I believe
that it has a three tiered approach to the problem...a little
physiology if you'll indulge me
In order for an erection to take place there must be three
factors
i) neurotransmitters from the brain telling the erectile
tissue to respond (sexual stimulii)
ii) smooth muscle sheath surrounding the erectile tissue to
relax, allowing an erection; and,
iii) suffiecient blood flow to the penis to facilitate the
erection.
An interruption in any one of these will effect the ability to
acheive an erection.
Viagra will work selectively on these three processes.
However, while it will work to enhance reception of the
neurotransmitters, and relax the smooth muscle somewhat, I don't know
if this is suffecient to block the effects stress will have on the
smooth muscle previously described.
