Why does priapism occur

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It occurs more often in males who have an inherited disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells sickle cell disease. Sickle cells can block the blood vessels in the penis. In some cases, the condition starts off with unwanted and painful erections of short duration and might progress over time to more-frequent and more-prolonged erections.

Stuttering priapism may begin in childhood. Nonischemic priapism, also known as high-flow priapism, occurs when blood flow through the arteries of the penis isn't working properly. However, the penile tissues continue to receive some blood flow and oxygen.

Nonischemic priapism often occurs due to trauma. If you have an erection lasting more than four hours, you need emergency care. The emergency room doctor will determine whether you have ischemic priapism or nonischemic priapism. If you experience recurrent, persistent, painful erections that resolve on their own, see your doctor.

You might need treatment to prevent further episodes. An erection normally occurs in response to physical or psychological stimulation. This stimulation causes certain smooth muscles to relax, increasing blood flow to spongy tissues in the penis. As a result, the blood-filled penis becomes erect. After stimulation ends, the blood flows out and the penis returns to its nonrigid flaccid state. Priapism occurs when some part of this system — the blood, vessels, smooth muscles or nerves — changes normal blood flow, and an erection persists.

Treatment Outlook Priapism is a prolonged and often painful erection of the penis. Share on Pinterest Priapism may occur in men of any age. What causes priapism? Share on Pinterest Use of some recreational drugs may cause priapism.

What are the complications of priapism? Share on Pinterest A doctor may prescribe medication if the erection has lasted bweteen hours. Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. Why does the penis change color? Medically reviewed by Daniel Murrell, MD.

What is penis shrinkage and why does it happen? Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. The 10 things you should know about your vagina Think you know all there is to know about your lady parts? Drug-induced priapism most commonly occurs with antipsychotics and can also occur with a range of medicines. Priapism or any erection lasting longer than four hours requires immediate medical attention to prevent long-term complications.

Medicines recognised as increasing the risk of priapism adapted from Salonia et al. Medicines that have been reported to cause priapism 3 , 4.