Four Penis Conditions – Decoding Unusual Signs and Symptoms

Men are often less than proactive when it comes to going to the doctor when they are under the weather, often preferring to tough it out at home.  Even still, nothing will send a man running to his doc faster than an unusual bump, discharge, or pain coming from below the belt.  And with good reason; when things go wrong with a man’s equipment, it can affect his physical health as well as his love life.  While a penis rash, bump or lump may be completely benign, it can also indicate a more serious condition such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).  Four of the most common STIs are described here, along with their most common symptoms.  It is important to be aware of these, so that medical attention can be sought if necessary. Furthermore, use of condoms and engaging in proper penis care in general can help prevent STIs and keep the package healthy and thriving.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is as stubborn as it is common, and once it has found a host, it does not go away easily.  Things to look out for include a pus-like discharge coming from the penis, along with an increased urge to urinate and painful urination.  Gonorrhea needs to be treated, as it may lead to a painful condition known as epididymitis, which can cause infertility.  Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but some strains are becoming drug-resistant making it even more difficult to treat.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is often found concurrently with gonorrhea, but it can also occur by itself.  Chlamydia is symptomless in men about 50% of the time – though their female partners are not so lucky and can suffer serious complications.  When symptoms do occur, the man is likely to experience pain and burning during urination, discharge from the penis, swollen and tender testicles and a fever. Sexually active men who are asymptomatic should be screened for the condition regularly, as they can pass chlamydia on to a partner without presenting any outward signs.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes has a more noticeable set of symptoms, as even the most unobservant person is sure to be aware of genital sores.  A genital sore caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus appears as a red, swollen papule that looks like a cold sore.  They can appear on the glans, shaft, anus, or other areas surrounding the genitals.  They may be itchy or painful and may produce a discharge.  Herpes cannot be cured; individuals with herpes simply go through periods of outbreak and remission.  Antiviral drugs can be used to shorten the outbreaks and make them less severe, and ointments may reduce pain associated with the sores.  As with Chlamydia, herpes can be spread even during asymptomatic periods, thus safe sex is imperative to protect one’s partner.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus can produce another easily noticed symptom: genital warts.  The virus is particularly worrisome, as it may increase one’s risk of certain types of cancer.  HPV is highly transmittable, but many carriers are asymptomatic and can therefore transmit the virus to their partners without being aware.

Maintaining Penis Health

While the only surefire way to avoid contracting an STI is abstinence, when used properly and faithfully, condoms are very effective at preventing the spread of infection.  Having a conversation with new partners about sexual health and being in monogamous relationships can also reduce the risk of contracting an STI.  Above all, in the case when a suspicious symptom should appear, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately; often the treatment is quick and effective.  Another important way to maintain the health of the penis is to have regular check-ups even in the absence of symptoms to prevent accidental spreading of an infection. 

A daily penis care regimen can also keep the penis healthy.  Visual inspections of the penis skin should be conducted as part of a grooming routine to watch for suspicious symptoms. The use of a high-quality penis vitamin cream (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also contribute to the health of the penis skin.  When choosing a penis crème, men should select one that is packed with vitamins and other nutrients that are especially formulated for use on the penis.