Red Penis Concerns - Common Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

For any man, unzipping the trousers and discovering a red, discolored penis can be extremely startling, uncomfortable, and alarming.  This condition can be particularly worrisome if the discolored penis is accompanied by other symptoms such as bumps, itching, flaking, discharge, and pain.  The most important factor in dealing with this condition is determining the cause.  Once the cause of the red penis is discovered, treatment of the condition is generally straightforward.  The following is a discussion of the most common causes of a red, discolored penis, the associated symptoms associated with each, and a recommended treatment for each cause, as well as suggestions for ongoing penis care.

Sexually Transmitted Disease

Sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes, syphilis, and genital warts can cause a decline in penile health and introduce symptoms which include discolored penis, itching, and pain.  Individuals suffering from a sexually transmitted disease may also experience additional symptoms, including the formation of bumps on the penis, fluid-filled blisters on the penis, and flaking skin.  If these symptoms arise, a physician should be consulted in order for proper treatment to be initiated, and advice can shared about avoiding transmission of the infection.

Male Candidiasis

Candidiasis, also referred to as yeast infection, balanitis, thrush, or moniliasis, is a well-known for affecting women.  However, yeast infections frequently affect males, as well.  Unfortunate men who develop candidiasis may experience symptoms associated with the head of the penis as well as the foreskin in uncircumcised men.  Symptoms associated with male candidiasis may include redness, itching, swelling, and irritation around the head of the penis, a thick discharge located under the foreskin, painful urination, and painful sexual activity.  One obvious cause for this condition is having unprotected sexual intercourse with a partner who has a yeast infection.  Other factors that can precipitate a yeast infection include the use of antibiotics or corticosteroids, poor hygiene, and a suppressed immune system.  This condition can easily be treated through improved hygiene and antifungal medications.

Eczema

Eczema, more commonly known as dermatitis, is a condition that can affect any area of the body; the penis is no exception.  Common symptoms associated with eczema are redness, itching, and flaking skin.  Eczema is most common among men who have sensitive skin.  This condition is primarily caused by contact with an allergen such as latex, fabric softeners, or any other environmental agent that may cause an allergic reaction.  There are many over-the-counter medications that can be used to alleviate the symptoms associated with eczema; however, a consultation with a physician is recommended so that proper individualized treatment can be administered.

Jock Itch

Jock itch, scientifically known as tinea cruris, is a form of ringworm that is actually caused by a fungus. These organisms flourish in hot, steamy areas such as locker rooms, public showers, damp towels, sweaty workout clothes, and wet floors.  For this reason, it is no wonder that this condition is most commonly known for affecting athletes – hence the name “jock itch.”  Common symptoms for jock itch include pain, redness and itching on the groin, inner thighs, and buttock.  This condition is less common on the scrotum and penis; however, very serious cases of jock itch may encompass these areas.  Jock itch can easily be treated with over-the-counter, topical antifungal creams and powders, but for persistent cases, a physician may need to be consulted.

Sexual Overuse

Frequent sexual intercourse or rough, aggressive sexual play may cause a red, discolored penis.  In addition to a red penis, this practice may also cause dryness, sensitivity, and soreness.  Even though the appearance of a red penis may be alarming, formal treatment of this issue is not usually necessary.  Avoiding sexual intercourse for a day or two should serve to eliminate the symptoms.  In addition, application of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that contains ingredients such as Vitamin E and Shea butter to improve penis moisture may also prove to be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of a red or irritated penis.