Priapism
Priapism is a rare condition resulting in an uncontrolled erection lasting for an unusually long time. It can be painful. Sexual stimulation can be involved, but there are often other causes such as medical conditions, medications or recreational drugs. Immediate treatment is important to prevent tissue damage and erectile dysfunction (ED).
Archived from the 2024 edition
Overview
When an erection lasts for too long, blood becomes trapped in the penis. One function of blood is to carry oxygen to different organs in the body. When the blood is trapped in the penis, the erectile tissues no longer receive the oxygen they need to stay healthy and to function normally. A prolonged lack of oxygenated blood can irreversibly damage or destroy tissue in the penis. This can disfigure the penis. It may also cause problems like erectile dysfunction (when the penis cannot become erect).
If you have an erection that lasts for four (4) or more hours, go to the emergency room for treatment. If a long-lasting erection eventually goes away, still make time to see your doctor. Treatment can prevent this from happening again and from causing damage.
In this entry
The archived page carried these sections, in this order.
- Types of Priapism
- How Does the Penis Normally Work?
- How Do Erections Work?
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Related Resources
- Priapism 101 with Dr. Brian Stork
- Explore Further