What is priapism, a rare disease that affects men

Definition

What is priapism?

Priapismus is a prolonged involuntary erection for several hours. Priapismus occurs because the blood inside the penis is blocked and cannot flow out. The second type is because too much blood flows into the penis. Priapismus is a rare disease.

How common is priapism (priapism)?

Priapismus is a rare disease. This disease generally affects boys, 5-10 years old, sickle cell anemia sufferers and men, 20-50 years old. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of priapism (priapism)?

Priapismus can recur repeatedly, be prolonged, and be persistent. When priapism recurs, the erections will repeat over and over, lasting less than 3 hours and causing pain. This situation is common and 10-40% occurs when men have sex.

Although in most cases the priapism will end after a few hours, it can also last for days or years, and can be classified as prolonged.

Persistent priapism lasts for hours or even days. Erections can cause pain and anaphrodisia.

Persistent priapism can last from weeks to years, usually after the patient has had an acute illness. Erections are often painless. An erect penis (holding too much blood), but not stiff. This situation results in anaphrodisia.

Some of the other symptoms or signs may not be listed above. If you feel anxious about these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

When should I see a doctor?

You need to call an ambulance if the penis erection lasts more than 4 hours. Call your doctor if your penis is prolonged and painful for less than 4 hours. Every body acts differently from one another. Talk to your doctor about the best solution for your situation.

Cause

What causes priapism (priapism)?

There is currently no accurate cause for priapism. In children, priapism is usually associated with cancer or sickle cell anemia. Anemia with abnormal blood cells can block blood flow out of the penis. Sudden illness appears while sleeping.

In men, drugs to treat anaphrodisia might increase the risk of priapism. Anti-anxiety, anticoagulant, alcohol and addictive drugs can cause this disorder. Other causes are injuries, spinal cord injuries, diseases related to the nervous system, and metabolism and thrombosis.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for priapism (priapism)?

There are many risk factors for this disease such as:

Diseases that cause circulatory disorders in the blood vessels
Take addictive illegal drugs
Drinking too much alcohol or products containing steroid androgens (substances that increase muscle size)

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for priapism (priapism)?

Recurrent priapism can be treated at home. Drinking lots of water and then urinating is the main treatment when the penis is stiff. Taking hot showers and exercising will reduce the frequency of recurrences. If the erection doesn't go away within 4 hours, go to the hospital.

Patients with prolonged priapism should receive hospital care. The doctor can inject phenylephrine into the spongy tissue of the penis. The doctor can also drain the blood out of the penis using an anesthetic and a small needle. If this method does not work, the doctor may need to perform surgery.

There is no standard treatment for prolonged erections. A vacuum penis pump or pull device may be used to treat anaphrodisia.

What are the usual tests for priapism (priapism)?

Your doctor may order a clinical diagnosis, blood test, or a Doppler ultrasound. Urologists can help evaluate and diagnose disease. Your hematologist may also be in for a consultation if you have sickle cell anemia.