Priapism in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Priapism
is an erection that lasts for 4 hours or longer. The erection may occur without stimulation. The cause of priapism is not always known. Priapism is usually painful and can lead to permanent tissue damage.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your child has a painful erection that comes and goes over many hours.
- Your child has trouble urinating.
Call your child's doctor if:
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Treatment for your child's priapism
will depend on the type he has. High-flow priapism often goes away on its own. Your child may need any of the following:
- Medicines may help regulate your child's hormone levels. He may also need an injection in his penis to help decrease blood flow.
- Pain medicine may be given. Ask how often your child should get pain medicine, and how much should be given.
- Aspiration is done to remove blood from your child's penis. His penis is numbed and blood is removed with a needle.
- Surgery may be done to place a shunt in your child's penis. The shunt allows the blood to pass through and out of the penis. Surgery may also be done to stop blood flow to your child's penis for a short time.
Manage your child's symptoms:
Apply ice on your child's groin for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel. Ice helps decrease blood flow to your child's penis and relieve his erection.
Prevent priapism in your child:
- Make sure your child sees his healthcare provider for regular checkups. If your child has a medical condition, such as sickle cell disease, make sure he follows his treatment plan.
- Talk with your child about the dangers of alcohol and drugs. Talk with your child's healthcare provider if your child drinks alcohol or takes drugs and needs help to stop.
Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits. Your child may need to see a specialist.
© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Priapism
Treatment options
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
