Yes, Can Priapism Damage be Reversed—which is a prolonged, often painful erection lasting more than four hours—can cause serious damage if not treated promptly. However, if treated quickly, the damage may be reversible. Delaying treatment increases the risk of permanent damage to the penis, including tissue death, scarring, and erectile dysfunction (ED) in the long term. Priapism occurs when blood becomes trapped in the penis and does not drain, leading to a sustained erection that is not caused by sexual arousal.