Priapism
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
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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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department 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.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Medicines may help regulate your hormone levels.
- 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.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
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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