sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site
Ask Sofi
Listen
Patient SupportEmergencies & Reporting
Log inSign up

Warning-sign checks

Fibrous plaques of the penis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    An erection lasting four hours or longer is an emergency, even if it is not very painful.

    This is called priapism and can damage penile tissue without timely treatment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if you develop a penile skin sore, bleeding, discharge, an unusual surface growth, or a groin lump.

    These are not typical features of a simple fibrous plaque.

    Get urgent medical care after an injury if you hear or feel a snap followed by immediate loss of the erection, marked swelling, bruising, or severe pain.

    These signs can indicate a penile fracture, which is a tear in the erection covering.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you notice a new firm area, penile curvature, narrowing, shortening, erection pain, or difficulty with penetration.

    Assessment is also worthwhile if an established plaque starts changing or is causing distress.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Fibrous plaques of the penis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.