Erections are triggered by several factors, including physical touch. Impulses from these nerves trigger extra blood flow to the penis. In some people, psychological factors also trigger an erection. For instance, thoughts of sex cause muscles in the corpora cavernosa to relax and blood to flow into it. The tunica albuginea then tightens, trapping the extra blood and wrapping around the penis’ tissue. Continue reading to know How do erections work.
Priapism is a prolonged erection unrelated to sexual arousal
Priapism can be caused by a number of factors. Some are associated with blood disorders, such as SCD (Severe Compulsive Disorder). Other causes of priapism include drug use and cancers of the penis. Priapism is most often painful and occurs for longer than 4 hours. In some cases, it can even result in a permanent erectile dysfunction if left untreated.
Priapism can also be nonischemic, in which case it often goes away without treatment. Symptomatic treatment for this type of priapism may involve applying ice packs to the penis and maintaining pressure on the perineum. Another treatment option is an absorbable gel that temporarily blocks blood flow to the penis but is absorbed by the body. A surgical procedure may be required in severe cases to repair damaged tissues or arteries.
During this time, blood trapped in the penis lacks oxygen and can lead to permanent nerve and penile tissue damage if untreated. In severe cases, tissue damage can occur six to eight hours after onset. The damage to the sensitive penile tissue is permanent and cannot be reversed. However, proper treatment for priapism will depend on the type of priapism your child is experiencing.
Priapism is caused by ED medications
Priapism is an uncomfortable and persistent erection caused by ED medications. It is rare but can be life-threatening if left untreated. This side effect can occur without sexual stimulation and can be painful and uncomfortable. In severe cases, it may even cause permanent damage to the penis. If you experience long-lasting erections, consult your doctor immediately.
Among the available options, diluted phenylephrine is the recommended agent for intracavernosal administration. It is less likely to produce cardiac effects than other agents. The agent may be administered every five minutes and a maximum of three injections is recommended. Several studies have reported a near 100 percent success rate in detumescence with this method.
The most common type of priapism is nonischemic – this condition is not caused by a blockage of the cavernous artery. Nonischemic priapism may occur after a perineal trauma or laceration of the cavernous artery. In many cases, however, there is no underlying cause. According to the authors of a panel review, about a third of nonischemic priapism cases spontaneously resolve. However, this type of priapism may be associated with erectile dysfunction in one-third of patients.
Reflexive erections are a nocturnal erection
Reflexive erectile dysfunction is a problem that occurs during deep sleep. Often, these erections do not require any sexual arousal and are thus termed reflexive. They may also be classified as psychogenic. Regardless of their etiological causes, reflexive erections can be a cause of arousal.
This common problem is a complication of the lack of sleep, or an overactive mind. Often, nocturnal erections can be a result of a full bladder. The bladder can cause a mild stimulation of the spinal cord, resulting in a reflex erection. The erectile tissue in the penis becomes partially or completely erect during this process, and it is sometimes referred to as a semi-erection.
Reflexive erectile dysfunction can affect both sexes, causing a decrease in nocturnal ejaculation. In men with reduced nocturnal ejaculatory function, their erections are fewer and more irregular. A man suffering from masturbation addiction is likely experiencing less frequent nocturnal erections than a man with normal sexual function.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction
A physical exam and medical history will help your doctor determine if erectile dysfunction is the cause. If the symptoms are related to hormone problems, your doctor may suggest injection treatments. He may also recommend surgery. If neither of these treatments proves to be effective, your doctor may suggest other treatment options. If you’re concerned that your symptoms are related to other health problems, you should consult with a specialist.
Some common causes of erectile dysfunction include neurological and vascular disorders. Diabetes and stroke can damage the nerves that send impulses to the penis. Psychological conditions can also contribute to erectile dysfunction, including chronic illnesses and trauma. Surgery for prostate, bladder, or colon cancer may also cause erectile dysfunction. A doctor can prescribe medication to address the problem, including erectile prosthetic implants.