What should be done for priapism?

Many men suffer from urological conditions—particularly priapism, a persistent and painful erection unrelated to sexual stimulation. What should one do if diagnosed with priapism?

Management of Priapism

Prompt evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital are essential. Initially, blood is aspirated from the corpora cavernosa for arterial blood gas analysis to differentiate ischemic (low-flow) from non-ischemic (high-flow) priapism. In early-stage ischemic priapism, intracavernosal injection of vasoconstrictors—such as phenylephrine—may be administered to induce cavernosal smooth muscle contraction and facilitate rapid drainage of stagnant blood. If this fails to resolve the erection, a larger-bore needle is used to aspirate blood, followed by irrigation with a vasoconstrictor-containing solution to restore the penis to its normal flaccid state. If these interventions prove ineffective, surgical shunt procedures may be required.

Priapism refers to a prolonged penile erection unrelated to sexual desire or stimulation. It is clinically defined as an erection lasting longer than six hours. Traditionally, priapism is classified as either primary (idiopathic) or secondary (due to underlying disease or medication). Hemodynamically, it is categorized as low-flow (ischemic) or high-flow (non-ischemic). Clinically, it may also be described as acute, intermittent, or chronic. Early-stage priapism often begins as physiologic erection but may progress to high-flow priapism in certain cases.

In daily life, engaging regularly in outdoor physical activity can enhance overall immunity and resistance, and may also contribute to improved sexual health. We hope this information proves helpful.