Symptoms
Painful erections are never normal, and there are times when the pain may be a sign of a medical emergency. The pain may be severe and need immediate medical attention, or it may resolve once the penis is soft. Descriptions range from burning or throbbing to feeling like broken glass.
Causes of Painful Erection
There are common and uncommon causes of painful erections, some of which are more treatable than others. Each has tell-tale signs and risk factors that can help differentiate one from the other.
Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a condition commonly affecting older people in which the penis suddenly develops an abnormal curve. It is thought to be caused by the buildup of scar tissue due to a history of mild sexual trauma or injury to the penis.
When this occurs, scar tissue can develop on the thick membrane surrounding the sponge-like columns of tissues within the penis (called the corpora cavernosa). This can cause the membranes to suddenly contract at the site of the scar tissue, leading to an abnormal curve. PD can cause pain during erections due to stretching of the shortened membranes. Depending on the severity of PD, you may have pain during sex or when getting an erection. Some people with PD may also feel pain when the penis is flaccid (soft).
Risk factors for PD include:
- A family history of Peyronie’s disease
- Engaging in vigorous sexual activity
- Diabetes
- Erectile dysfunction
- Having a connective tissue disease (like Dupuytren’s contracture)
- Having an autoimmune disease
- Having had prostate cancer surgery
Priapism
Priapism is an erection that persists for hours without sexual stimulation. Prolonged ischemic priapism, including stuttering priapism, is considered a medical emergency. There are three types of priapism a person can experience:
- Ischemic priapism: Also known as low-flow priapism, this is the most common type in which blood cannot leave the penis after an erection. Causes include prescription medications, recreational drugs, certain insect venoms, leukemia (blood cancer), spinal cord injuries, and others.
Treatment and Management
Treatment and management of painful erections depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, medication or surgery may be necessary to address the underlying condition. In other cases, lifestyle changes, such as reducing sexual activity or avoiding certain activities, may be recommended.
Conclusion
Painful erections can be a sign of a medical emergency and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. There are various causes of painful erections, including Peyronie’s disease and priapism. Treatment and management depend on the underlying cause, and lifestyle changes may be necessary to alleviate symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the common causes of painful erections?
A: Common causes of painful erections include Peyronie’s disease, priapism, and other medical conditions.
Q: What are the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease?
A: Symptoms of Peyronie’s disease include pain during erections, abnormal curvature of the penis, and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
Q: What is priapism?
A: Priapism is an erection that persists for hours without sexual stimulation.
Q: How is priapism treated?
A: Treatment for priapism depends on the underlying cause, but may include medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
Q: Can painful erections be prevented?
A: In some cases, painful erections can be prevented by avoiding certain activities or making lifestyle changes. However, in other cases, painful erections may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.
