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Selective Enzyme Inhibitors and Cardiovascular Complications - From the Doctor's Office
Arthroscopy
Selective Enzyme Inhibitors and
Cardiovascular Complications
There has been an increase in cardiovascular complications related to selective enzyme inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, authorized by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States, are the most common selective enzyme inhibitors in the market. They enable blood to flow into the penis to achieve and maintain an erection.
FDA regulated laboratories advise against these medications when taking nitroglycerin (tablet, patch or ointment dose forms), other nitrates (isosorbide or nitroprusside), nitric oxide donor drugs, or recreational drugs (poppers) containing amyl or butyl nitrates, because of very serious interactions. If you are uncertain if a medication contains nitrates, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Some people make the mistake of not getting informed about health risks or contraindications when using this type of medication. Another error is trying other products, like natural supplements or herbs, when they cannot use selective enzyme inhibitors, assuming these are beneficial, less dangerous or do not have the unwanted side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Statements like "Herbs are powerful potentiators for sex...especially for men" or “Herbs are strong enough to benefit the male system without the unwanted side effects of drugs,” create a false idea that a magic formula is available.
Products advertised on TV, newspapers and other media may be sold without a prescription, but may also have side effects that include myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease and even death.
Men with heart problems should be aware that sexual activity may put extra strain on their heart. If you experience severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, or nausea while having sex, consult your doctor immediately.
If you are taking a selective enzyme inhibitor and experience a painful or prolonged erection lasting more than 4 hours, stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention to avoid permanent problems. Remember that all medications, even over-the-counter products like aspirin, have side effects, and in many cases, are contraindicated for particular conditions or diseases.
If you consider taking selective enzyme inhibitors, inform your physician about any other medication or supplement you might be taking, read the product information and follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid medical complications. Only your doctor can prescribe the right dose for you and recommend the best way to take care of your health.
This article appears in Bupa's Healthy Living Newsletter.
Winter 2008 edition: PDF Version
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From the Doctor's Office
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a doctor to look at the inside of a joint in the body through a thin viewing instrument called arthroscope.
The word arthroscopy is derived from the Greek words, arthro (joint) and scopy (to look), which together literally mean "to look inside a joint."
An arthroscopic surgery allows the doctor to examine the joint surfaces and the surrounding soft tissue, such as the one connecting bone to bone (ligaments) and the tough tissue that covers the ends of the bones at the joints (cartilage), which provide a cushion between the bones.
This procedure can be used to diagnose joint problems, perform surgery that repairs joint problems, remove a loose foreign body, screen a disease, or monitor the effectiveness of a treatment. Arthroscopy is usually performed on the knees, shoulders, and ankles. It can also be done on the hips, elbows, and wrists.
During this procedure, the arthroscope is inserted into the joint through a small incision in the skin. The instrument has a light source and a video camera. Images from the camera can be seen on a video monitor. These magnified images provide a clear picture of the joint. A sample of joint tissue can also be collected during the arthroscopy for biopsy. If surgery is performed, additional instruments are inserted into the joint through other small incisions.
Just like open surgery (which is done using a larger incision), an arthroscopy allows the doctor to see what is wrong with the joint. However, compared to open surgery, an arthroscopy:
- Is less painful;
- Is less costly;
- Allows for a quicker recovery time;
- Can be done as an outpatient procedure that does not require an overnight hospital stay. Open surgery often requires an inpatient stay at the hospital.
Surgical procedures done by arthroscopy usually result in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times than open joint surgery. The doctor will prescribe pain medication and recommend rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy during the recovery.
This article appears in Bupa's Healthy Living Newsletter.
Winter 2008 edition: PDF Version
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