Prednisone is one of those drugs that can be easily called “jack of all trades”. The spectrum of its applications is very broad and comprehensive, including various conditions characterized by inflammatory processes in the body. And it’s not surprising to learn that Prednisone is extensively used for the treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica, a painful condition common among senior patients. But if you’re looking forward to using this drug as a way to alleviate this health problem you should learn more about the condition and understand how Prednisone can actually help you.

Polymyalgia rheumatica or shortly PMR is an inflammatory health condition characterized by instant impulses of acute pain that mainly affect joints in the shoulder or hip areas. It is more common in women than men and is diagnosed mainly in people over 60 years old. The actual causes for this condition are still unknown as there’s no obvious pathogen or other agent to trigger the pain. There are various theories including viral influence and other factors, but they are more speculative rather than applicative. The actual treatment of this condition usually involves the use of corticosteroid drugs such as Prednisone, which delivers the best effects in managing the condition in the long term.

Prednisone is a well-known corticosteroid medication and it’s not surprising to see it being prescribed to virtually all patients suffering from polymyalgia. In fact, the drug is probably the only viable option available, because other anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs do not deliver effects that would be on the scale with Prednisone. Nevertheless, such common drugs as ibuprofen may be prescribed in conjunction with corticosteroids for getting better results with lower doses of the steroids in the long run. It is therefore very important to understand the potential hazards of misusing Prednisone and learn how it should be used correctly.

Since Prednisone is a corticosteroid drug it has a very complex effect on the entire body, mainly targeting the immune system. It acts as an immunosuppressant, which means that the drug weakens the immune system and makes it less active. The good thing about such effects is that virtually all inflammatory processes can be stopped or at least alleviated. But on the other hand, this makes the organism more susceptible to diseases and infections as the immune system cannot respond to various agents as actively as it has to. So it is a very common recommendation to watch out for any infection hazard while taking Prednisone, especially during a long-term treatment – something PMR actually implies.

But if you want to relieve the symptoms of polymyalgia without relying heavily on Prednisone and other prescription drugs, you may want to try adopting some lifestyle changes. It was observed that regular exercises reduce the risk and impact of PMR, probably because well-flexed muscles are less likely to suffer from sudden pain. Diet is another point of interest, as it can also reduce the intensity of PMR. A balanced diet rich with vitamins and minerals is thought to provide anti-viral effects and regulate the immune system. Of course, these effects will take much longer to manifest and won’t be as pronounced as with drugs like Prednisone. But it’s definitely a good way to address PMR without taking higher doses of the prescription medication.

If you have been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction, you may be concerned that you will no longer be able to enjoy a satisfying love life with your partner. However, advances in research have provided medications designed to treat the symptoms of ED. Sildenafil has been recommended by many doctors over the years as an affective treatment of the condition.

How Viagra Mechanism Works?

The drug is designed to allow you to maintain an erection long enough for physical intimacy. It does this by relaxing the muscles and allowing blood to flow to the penis. It inhibits the hormones that stop the blood flow long enough for you to enjoy physical intercourse. It can work as quickly as 30 minutes to help you when you are in the mood.

One of the big concerns for men who have not taken the drug is that it will give them an erection when they don’t want it. However, this is not the case. It only aids in the natural response when you are ready for intimacy. It does not cause an unplanned erection.

How Should I Take It?

When you are ready for intimacy, you simply take the prescribed dose about a half hour before. It doesn’t matter if you have eaten or not, but a high-fat meal could slow down the time it takes to work. Also, you may want to have a greater window of opportunity if you are going out on a date or spending a romantic evening at home. This drug allows you to take it up to four hours before you are ready for intercourse.

It is not recommended that you take the drug more than once per day unless your doctor prescribes it more often. It is also not necessary to take it every day, but only when you plan to have sexual intercourse.

Who Cannot Take Viagra?

As with any drug, there are things to be concerned about with Viagra (sildenafil). It has been proven in research to be effective for a vast majority of men. However, there are some men who should not take the medication. Anyone who has a heart condition may be at a higher risk for problems from taking the drug. That is why it is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor prior to taking any new medication.

Anyone who has the following conditions should alert their doctor before taking sildenafil (brand name Viagra):

• High or low blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease
• Stroke within the last six months
• Myocardial infarction
• Retinitis pigmentosa

In addition, if you are taking an alpha-blocker, it is important to let the doctor know.

Generic or brand name Viagra can improve the symptoms of ED and allow you to live a normal life. It is important that you fully disclose your medical history to the doctor to make sure you are a good candidate for the drug. It is also important that you follow the doctor’s directions while taking Viagra to experience the full benefit.