A RECORD 518 men in a year needed hospital treatment for painful erections, figures show.
And the NHS prescribed a record 4.7million times last year.
Priapism is a rare side-effect of Viagra and can also be caused by blood flow problems
Of the 518 cases in the year to March 2025, 410 were emergency admissions for — where the penis remains erect for over four hours.
The remainder had and went to hospital for pre-planned or non-emergency treatment, including surgeries.
NHS England admissions figures show the average patient age was 41.
But 26 were over 65 — and one over 90.
Priapism is a rare side-effect of and can also be caused by blood flow problems.
If untreated, patients face scarring, impotence or amputation.
Fixes include painkiller jabs, muscle relaxants, or surgery to drain clots.
Dr Deborah Lee, of online pharmacy Dr Fox, said: “After four hours, an erection is a medical emergency. Without urgent treatment this can even result in gangrene.
“If you notice prolonged, painful erections, consult your GP.”
Last year bosses spent £20million on tackling erectile dysfunction in England.
A record 518 men in a year needed hospital treatment for painful erections, figures show 
