Diseases

Priapism

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Medical definition of priapism. : an abnormal, more or less persistent, and often painful erection of the penis; especially : one caused by disease rather than sexual desire.

SYMPTOMS

Priapism symptoms vary depending on the type of priapism. The two main types of priapism are ischemic and nonischemic priapism.
Ischemic priapism
Ischemic priapism, also called low-flow priapism, is the result of blood not being able to leave the penis. It's the more common type of priapism. Signs and symptoms include:

erection lasting more than four hours or unrelated to sexual interest or stimulation
rigid penile shaft, but the tip of penis (glans) is soft
progressive penile pain

CAUSES

An erection normally occurs in response to physical or psychological stimulation. This stimulation causes certain blood vessels and smooth muscles to relax and/or expand, increasing blood flow to spongy tissues in the penis. Consequently, 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, blood vessels, smooth muscles or nerves — changes normal blood flow. Subsequently, the erection persists. While the underlying cause of priapism often can't be determined, several conditions are believed to play a role.