Priapism is a persistent and painful erection that occurs without sexual stimulation and does not subside. This condition can last for several hours and, if left untreated, can cause permanent damage to the erectile tissue.
Priapism is most commonly seen in men with sickle cell anemia, but can also occur as a side effect of certain medications, such as drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction or as a result of injury to the penis. In some cases, the cause of priapism may be unknown.
The symptoms of priapism include a persistent and painful erection, as well as decreased or absent sexual desire. If you experience symptoms of priapism, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as this can be a painful and potentially dangerous condition.
Treatment for priapism may include medications to help reduce the erection, procedures to remove blood from the penis, or surgery to correct underlying conditions that may be contributing to the priapism. In some cases, more invasive procedures may be necessary to restore normal erectile function.
If you are concerned about priapism or have a history of this condition, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of complications. This may include making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain medications, and taking steps to manage underlying conditions that may contribute to the development of priapism.
