Abstract
Sleep-related painful erection (SRPE) is a condition characterized by painful nocturnal erections and frequent nighttime awakenings; however, the pathophysiology is not well understood and existing literature consists mainly of case reports. We aimed to investigate the causes, treatments, and impact on quality of life among individuals affected by SRPE. An e-questionnaire comprising of 30 items was administered to a group of men with SRPE identified through social media in October of 2021. The survey collected information on demographics, clinical and social history, symptomatology, interventions and quality of life. 44 patients with SRPE completed surveys (70.9% response rate), with a mean age ± SD of 43.3 ± 12.8 years. Most respondents had no relevant medical history related to erectile function disorders. 43.2% of subjects reported sleep apnea, and 27.1% reported a mental health disorder or psychiatric medication use. Baclofen was the most common medication, but only 25% of patients found it beneficial. Sleep repositioning, oxygen device use and pelvic floor therapy were interventions that provided the most relief. Most patients did not require emergency department visits (93.2%); only a small number needed penile aspiration (n = 2). As reported by most respondents, SRPE significantly impacted patients’ quality of life.
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Data availability
The dataset generated from the current study is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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RC, DSB, DC, FY, SL and PP each contributed to the study design, manuscript drafting, and approval of the final version. All authors agree to be accountable for the accuracy and integrity of the work.
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PP is a consultant for Boston Scientific. The remaining authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Approval for this study was obtained from the University of Manitoba’s Health and Research Ethics Board.
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Wong, R., Bal, D.S., Chung, D. et al. Sleep-related painful erections: a survey-based analysis of patient-reported experiences with diagnosis and management. Int J Impot Res (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-023-00809-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-023-00809-y