Priapism Symptoms: Signs of a Serious Condition

Priapism is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by a persistent and painful erection that lasts for more than four hours.

It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of priapism promptly as it requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications.

In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms that indicate priapism, emphasizing the importance of seeking urgent medical care when these signs occur.

Persistent Erection

One of the primary symptoms of priapism is a persistent erection that does not subside even after sexual arousal or stimulation. This erection can be painful and uncomfortable for the individual experiencing it.

A normal erection typically lasts for a few minutes to a few hours and resolves after ejaculation.

However, in the case of priapism, the erection persists beyond the usual duration, indicating a potential underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed promptly.

Penile Pain

Another common symptom of priapism is penile pain, which can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can worsen as the erection continues.

This discomfort is often a result of the increased blood flow to the penis, causing pressure and stretching of the penile tissues.

It is essential not to ignore penile pain, especially when accompanied by a prolonged erection, as it could be a sign of priapism.

Swollen Penis

Priapism can also cause swelling of the penis due to the accumulation of blood in the erectile tissues. The penis may appear larger than usual and feel tender to the touch.

Swelling can contribute to the discomfort and pain experienced during priapism. If you notice any unusual swelling in your penis, especially in conjunction with a prolonged erection, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications.

Lack of Sexual Arousal

In cases of priapism, individuals may experience a lack of sexual arousal despite having a persistent erection. This lack of response to sexual stimuli is a key indicator of priapism, as a normal erection is typically associated with sexual excitement.

If you find yourself with an erection that is not related to sexual arousal and does not subside, it is important to consider the possibility of priapism and seek medical help immediately.

Discolored Penile Tissue

Another concerning symptom of priapism is the discoloration of penile tissue, often appearing dark or purplish in color. This discoloration is a result of the lack of oxygenated blood flow to the penis, leading to tissue damage.

Darkened penile skin is a serious sign of priapism and requires urgent medical attention to prevent permanent damage to the erectile tissues.

If you notice any changes in the color of your penile skin along with other symptoms of priapism, do not hesitate to seek medical help.

Urgent Medical Attention

It is crucial to emphasize that priapism is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention from healthcare professionals. Delaying treatment for priapism can lead to serious complications, including permanent erectile dysfunction and tissue damage.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, such as a persistent erection, penile pain, swollen penis, lack of sexual arousal, or discolored penile tissue, do not hesitate to seek urgent medical care.

Priapism Diagnosis

Diagnosis of priapism typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly imaging tests to determine the underlying cause of the prolonged erection.

Healthcare providers may also perform blood tests to assess blood flow to the penis and rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to priapism. Prompt diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment and to prevent complications associated with priapism.

• Erection lasting over 4 hours
• Darkened penile skin

In conclusion, recognizing the symptoms of priapism, such as a persistent erection, penile pain, swollen penis, lack of sexual arousal, and discolored penile tissue, is crucial for timely intervention and treatment.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, do not delay seeking medical attention. Priapism is a serious condition that requires urgent medical care to prevent long-term complications.

Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, so do not hesitate to reach out for help when needed.