A persistent erection, medically known as priapism, is an uncomfortable and often painful condition that occurs when blood becomes trapped in the penis, leading to an erection that does not subside even after sexual stimulation has stopped.

While a prolonged erection may seem like a good thing at first, it can quickly turn into a serious medical emergency that can lead to permanent damage to the penis and other serious complications.

What Causes Priapism?

There are many potential causes of priapism, including:.

Medications, such as antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, and antipsychotics
Blood disorders, such as sickle cell disease and leukemia
Illicit drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana
Trauma to the genital area
Spinal cord injuries
Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis

While priapism can occur in men of any age, it is most commonly seen in men between the ages of 5 and 50.

Complications of Persistent Erection

If left untreated, priapism can lead to a range of serious complications that can have permanent consequences. Some of the most common complications of persistent erection include:.

1. Erectile Dysfunction

One of the most common complications of priapism is erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

This can occur as the result of damage to the tissues of the penis caused by the prolonged erection.

2. Fibrosis

Priapism can also lead to fibrosis, which is when the tissues of the penis become scarred and lose their elasticity. This can lead to a range of issues, including reduced penile length and girth, and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

3. Peyronie’s Disease

In some cases, priapism can lead to Peyronie’s disease, which is a condition characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis.

This can lead to curvature of the penis, painful erections, and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

4. Infection

Because priapism involves prolonged and sustained blood flow to the penis, it can increase the risk of infection. If left untreated, infections can spread throughout the body and lead to serious complications.

5. Loss of Sexual Function

In severe cases, priapism can lead to permanent damage to the tissues of the penis, which can result in a loss of sexual function and an inability to achieve or maintain an erection at all.

How is Priapism Treated?

If you experience a persistent erection that lasts for longer than four hours, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Treatment typically involves draining blood from the penis to reduce the pressure and restore normal blood flow.

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help reduce the risk of complications.

Preventing Priapism

While priapism cannot always be prevented, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition:.

Avoid illicit drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana
Discuss potential side effects of medications with your doctor
Exercise regularly to improve blood flow throughout the body
Avoid injury to the genital area

Conclusion

Priapism may seem like a harmless or even amusing condition, but it can quickly turn into a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

If left untreated, priapism can lead to a range of serious complications that can have permanent consequences. If you experience a prolonged erection, seek medical attention immediately to minimize the risk of complications and to restore normal blood flow to the penis.