Priapism - Symptoms 

Symptoms of priapism 

The symptoms of priapism include:

  • a persistent and unwanted erection that lasts longer than four hours
  • the shaft of the penis is fully rigid and inflexible, but the glans (head) of the penis is usually soft
  • the penis is usually painful or tender

The persistent erection that is associated with priapism is unrelated to feelings of sexual excitement or stimulation.

When to seek medical advice

If you think that you have priapism, you may require emergency medical treatment. Go immediately to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department. 

Last reviewed: 06/04/2011

Next review due: 06/04/2013

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Stuttering priapism

Stuttering priapism is a poorly understood type of priapism. It is where a person has repeated episodes of ischemic priapism (as many as two episodes a week).

People who have sickle cell anaemia sometimes develop stuttering priapism. However, in many cases of stuttering priapism, no obvious cause can be found.

Useful links

NHS Choices links

External links

Sickle cell anaemia

African and African Caribbean people are more likely to be affected by sickle cell disorders. Find out about symptoms, treatment and managing a sickle cell crisis.

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