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Sildenafil: Self‑Check Questionnaire, Safety, and Next Steps

February 8, 2026

Sildenafil self-check questionnaire infographic for medication safety and erectile health awareness

Sildenafil

Disclaimer: This self‑check questionnaire is for educational purposes only. It does not diagnose any condition or replace professional medical advice. If you are unsure about your symptoms, medication use, or safety, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Questionnaire

Use the checklist below to reflect on symptoms, duration, possible triggers, and risk factors related to sildenafil use (commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction and certain pulmonary conditions). Answer honestly; you do not need to share this with anyone unless you choose to discuss it with a clinician.

  • Have you experienced difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection for more than 4 weeks?
  • Do erectile difficulties occur consistently, rather than only in specific situations?
  • Have you noticed reduced sexual desire, arousal, or satisfaction recently?
  • Did symptoms begin gradually rather than suddenly?
  • Are you over the age of 40?
  • Do you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease?
  • Do you smoke, vape, or use tobacco products?
  • Do you consume alcohol frequently or in large amounts?
  • Are you currently taking medications that may affect blood pressure or circulation (e.g., nitrates, alpha‑blockers)?
  • Have you experienced headaches, flushing, nasal congestion, or indigestion after taking sildenafil?
  • Have you ever had chest pain, dizziness, or fainting during sexual activity?
  • Do you notice visual changes (blurred vision, blue‑tinged vision) after use?
  • Have erections lasted longer than 4 hours or been painful?
  • Is stress, anxiety, or relationship strain present during the time symptoms occur?
  • Did symptoms improve or worsen with lifestyle changes (sleep, exercise, weight)?

How to interpret answers

Your responses can help you decide whether and how soon to seek professional advice. This is not a diagnosis.

  • Low reason to seek help: Occasional symptoms, clear situational triggers (stress, fatigue), no concerning side effects, and no significant risk factors.
  • Medium reason to seek help: Persistent symptoms for several weeks, multiple risk factors (age, smoking, chronic conditions), or bothersome but mild side effects.
  • High reason to seek help: Chest pain, fainting, severe dizziness, vision or hearing changes, erections lasting over 4 hours, or use of contraindicated medications (such as nitrates).

Next steps: what to do

  1. Self‑monitor: Note when symptoms occur, their frequency, and any triggers.
  2. Record medication use: Include dose, timing, food/alcohol intake, and side effects.
  3. Review health history: List chronic conditions, recent illnesses, and surgeries.
  4. Check interactions: Identify all prescription, OTC, and herbal products you use.
  5. Choose the right specialist: Start with a primary care physician; they may refer you to a urologist or cardiologist.
  6. Prepare questions: Ask about dosing, timing, interactions, alternatives, and lifestyle measures.
  7. Follow up: Reassess symptoms and tolerance after any changes recommended by a professional.
Situation Urgency Action
Mild, occasional erectile difficulty Low Monitor; consider lifestyle adjustments
Persistent symptoms with risk factors Medium Schedule a routine medical appointment
Severe side effects or chest pain High Seek urgent medical care

FAQ

  • What is sildenafil used for? It is commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction and, at different dosing, certain pulmonary vascular conditions.
  • How long does sildenafil take to work? Many people notice effects within 30–60 minutes, though this varies.
  • Can I take it with food? Yes, but high‑fat meals may delay onset.
  • Is it safe for everyone? No. Some heart conditions and medications (like nitrates) make it unsafe.
  • Are side effects common? Headache, flushing, and nasal congestion are reported; severe effects are uncommon but require care.
  • Does it increase desire? It supports physical response, not sexual desire.
  • Can lifestyle changes help? Yes—exercise, sleep, smoking cessation, and stress management can be beneficial.

For additional reading within our site, see related posts in Без рубрики, browse our Blog health insights, or check recent updates in News.

Sources

  • U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) — Sildenafil Drug Label
  • National Health Service (NHS), UK — Sildenafil overview
  • European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Sildenafil assessment reports
  • Mayo Clinic — Erectile dysfunction treatments