Priapism
Updated:Priapism is a persistent and often painful erection that lasts for four hours or more without sexual stimulation. This condition is unrelated to sexual arousal and doesn't subside after orgasm. Priapism can occur in individuals with penises of any age, including children, and is considered a medical emergency that requires prompt attention to prevent long-term damage to the erectile tissues.
Additional Information
There are two main types of priapism:
Ischemic priapism: The most common and serious type, where blood becomes trapped in the penis and can't flow out. This can lead to tissue damage if not treated quickly.
Non-ischemic priapism: Less common and typically not painful, caused by unregulated blood flow through the penis.
Causes of priapism can include certain medications (particularly those used to treat erectile dysfunction), blood disorders like sickle cell disease, spinal cord injuries, and some recreational drugs. Treatment depends on the type and cause but may include medication, ice packs, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Examples
A man experiences an erection lasting over 6 hours after taking erectile dysfunction medication and seeks immediate medical attention.
A person with sickle cell disease develops priapism as a complication and requires treatment to prevent permanent erectile dysfunction.