Priapism
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Priapism
is an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours. The erection happens without sexual arousal. The cause of priapism is not always known. Priapism can be painful and lead to permanent tissue damage.
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Seek care immediately if:
- You have a painful erection that comes and goes over many hours.
- You have trouble urinating.
Call your doctor if:
- You have problems getting an erection after treatment.
- You have any questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment for priapism
will depend on the type you have. High-flow priapism often goes away on its own. You may need any of the following:
- Medicines may help regulate your hormone levels. You may also need an injection in your penis to help decrease blood flow.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Aspiration is done to remove blood from your penis. Your penis is numbed and blood is removed with a needle.
- Surgery may be done to place a shunt in your penis. The shunt allows blood to pass through and out of your penis. Surgery may also be done to stop blood flow to your penis for a short time.
Self-care:
Apply ice on your 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 penis and relieve your erection.
Sexual activity:
Ask your healthcare provider when it is safe for you to have sex again.
Prevent priapism:
- Manage medical conditions that increase your risk for priapism. Take your medicines as directed.
- Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol increases your risk for priapism.
- Do not use drugs. Talk with your healthcare provider if you use drugs and need help to stop.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits. You may need to see a specialist.
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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.
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