The term "priapism" refers to an abnormal penile tumescence that is characterized by the presence of an erection lasting for longer than four hours without any stimulation or sexual desire. It can occur in men of all ages, but it is more common among young boys aged between 2 and 16 years old. This condition can be due to various causes, such as blood disorders, trauma, medication side effects, or underlying medical conditions. In general, priapism is painful and uncomfortable, and it needs immediate medical attention because if left untreated, it could lead to permanent damage to the penis. If you are experiencing priapism, you should seek professional help immediately. You can get medical advice from a doctor or urologist who will evaluate your symptoms and perform a physical examination to determine the cause of this problem. Treatment options may include draining excessive blood from the penis using a needle and syringe, injecting medications to reduce swelling, or taking medications to relax the muscles in the penis. However, surgery might be necessary if these methods fail to alleviate the situation. The exact cause of priapism remains unknown, but researchers believe it could be related to problems with the nervous system, hormonal imbalances, or vascular issues. It can also result from drug abuse or certain types of cancer treatments. Men who experience priapism should avoid engaging in sexual activity until their healthcare provider gives them clearance. Sexual intercourse puts pressure on the penis that can further increase its size and prolong the erection. Additionally, ejaculating during an erection can relieve some of the pressure, but not all of it. Priapism is a serious medical issue that requires prompt treatment.
Men can experience "priapism," a prolonged, often painful erection lasting more than four hours. This condition occurs when there is a lack of blood flow out of the corpora cavernosa, which causes the penis to remain hard for a long time. Priapism is divided into two categories: ischemic and non-ischemic. Ischemic priapism is caused by a blockage in one or both of the arteries supplying blood to the corpus cavernosum. Non-ischemic priapism occurs when there is no blockage, but the flow of blood to the penis is slowed down due to factors such as trauma or injury. Ischemic priapism is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. Treatment options include draining excessive blood from the penis using a needle and syringe, injecting medications to reduce swelling, or taking medications to relax the muscles in the penis. Surgery might be necessary if these methods fail to alleviate the situation. The exact cause of priapism remains unknown, but researchers believe it could be related to problems with the nervous system, hormonal imbalances, or vascular issues. It can also result from drug abuse or certain types of cancer treatments. Men who experience priapism should avoid engaging in sexual activity until their healthcare provider gives them clearance. Sexual intercourse puts pressure on the penis that can further increase its size and prolong the erection. Ejaculation may relieve some of the pressure, but not all of it.
Priapism is a serious medical issue that requires prompt treatment. If left untreated, it could lead to permanent damage to the penis. In rare cases, men may experience priapism up to several days without treatment. In this case, surgical removal of the corpora cavernosa may be required to prevent complications such as gangrene, fibrosis, or erectile dysfunction. Priapism does not always have physical symptoms, so it's essential to seek professional help immediately if you suspect you are experiencing this condition. Your doctor will perform a physical examination to determine your diagnosis and identify any underlying causes. They may order tests such as imaging scans and blood work to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. Treatment options for priapism include draining excessive blood from the penis using a needle and syringe, injecting medications to reduce swelling, or taking medications to relax the muscles in the penis. Surgery might be necessary if these methods fail to alleviate the situation. The exact cause of priapism remains unknown, but researchers believe it could be related to problems with the nervous system, hormonal imbalances, or vascular issues. It can also result from drug abuse or certain types of cancer treatments. Men who experience priapism should avoid engaging in sexual activity until their healthcare provider gives them clearance. Sexual intercourse puts pressure on the penis that can further increase its size and prolong the erection. Ejaculation may relieve some of the pressure, but not all of it.
Priapism is a serious medical issue that requires prompt treatment. If left untreated, it could lead to permanent damage to the penis. In rare cases, men may experience priapism up to several days without treatment. In this case, surgical removal of the corpora cavernosa may be required to prevent complications such as gangrene, fibrosis, or erectile dysfunction. Priapism does not always have physical symptoms, so it's essential to seek professional help immediately if you suspect you are experiencing this condition. Your doctor will perform a physical examination to determine your diagnosis and identify any underlying causes. They may order tests such as imaging scans and blood work to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.