Heart Problems

Heart disease is an umbrella term which refers to a number of different diseases which affect the heart. As of 2007, heart problems are the leading cause of death in the UK and much of the western world.

Just click on the titles for more information on how heart problems relate to the conditions we specialise in.

To see treatments and prices  

Impotence (erectile dysfunction)

Heart disease can be associated with various factors that increase the likelihood of erectile dysfunction. Hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis), which is frequently involved in heart disease, can affect the arteries that supply blood to the penis - causing impotence.

Medicines used to treat high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers, thiazide diuretics and clonidine, can also cause impotence. Some, but not all, statins and fibrates, used to treat high cholesterol levels, may also have a minor effect.

Erectile dysfunction commonly exists in men with heart disease and it is very treatable. The risk renewed sexual activity poses in patients with heart disease is minimal if properly assessed. Sexual activity is no more stressful to the heart than walking one mile on the level in 20 minutes. As a general rule of thumb, if he can walk up a flight of stairs or walk a flat mile in 20 minutes, he should be ok.

However, impotence treatments are unsuitable for men with severe heart conditions. The danger isn't the impotence treatments but the activity of sex itself, which can put too much strain on the heart. Patients with more severe heart disease should be referred to a cardiologist who can further evaluate their condition and determine if it is safe for them to resume sexual activity.

Firstmed offer the three major impotence pills, Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, which will give satisfying results for most men. Following consultation with our Doctor, you can buy cialis online or one of the other available medications,

Please review our impotence treatment page where we have highlighted the differences between Viagra , Levitra and Cialis to help decide which drug is most suited to you.

Obesity

Obesity or being severely overweight is recognised as a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack. Obesity raises blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lowers HDL "good" cholesterol, raises blood pressure levels and can induce diabetes. In some people, diabetes makes these other risk factors much worse. The danger of heart attack is especially high for these people.

For more information about obesity and how to lose weight and reduce you risk of heart attack visit our weight loss section

Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor that contributes to a form of heart disease called cardiovascular disease. Smoking, or even exposure to second-hand smoke, makes the heart work harder. Smoking damages the heart muscle, which results in clogged arteries and decreases the oxygen carried in the blood. Smoking leads to a buildup of fat deposits associated with nicotine and carbon monoxide making blood vessels and arteries smaller, which limits the blood supply to the heart

Fortunately now there is more information on smoking cessation and better treatments to help you quit for good. Learn more about quitting smoking

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