Penis Rash: Sign of HIV?

Ah, there’s nothing quite like being a sexually active male, enjoying the benefits of having one’s penis pleasured regularly and frequently – and, for some guys, from a wide variety of partners. Of course, when a guy is sexually active, and especially when he has more than one partner, there also are penis health issue to be concerned about, including the scary possibility of contracting HIV. Thus, men need to be on the lookout for signs associated with HIV – including a penis rash.

The penis rash

Of course, not every penis rash is a sign that a man may have contracted HIV from a partner. There are many, many different causes of penis rash, including simple dry skin; eczema; psoriasis; an allergic reaction; scabies; balanitis; and quite a few others. But many times (though not always) a person who has been infected with HIV will experience a penis rash.

In point of fact, the HIV-related rash may not always be a penis rash, or may not be relegated to just the penis. It can appear almost anywhere on the body, although it most often is on the upper part rather than the legs or feet.

Appearance

What does it look like? In most cases, the rash associated with an HIV infection is seen as a flat red patch of skin, within which may be tiny bumps. This rash usually appears between 2 and 4 weeks after a person has become infected; typically it stays around for 1 – 2 weeks.

It is also very common for the penis rash to be itchy (which, of course, guys don’t find at all annoying.) It may also be tender or painful – and if scratched too often or too hard, could become infected itself.

Other symptoms

The rash may (or may not) be accompanied by other symptoms, which can include a fever or chills; tiredness of fatigue; swollen glands; sore throat; and pains, especially in the joints and muscles. Observant readers may notice that these symptoms are associated with other conditions, including the flu. This can complicate identifying a case of HIV – which is why a doctor should be consulted. They will most likely ask you questions about your sexual activity and if it seems that HIV (or another sexually-transmitted infection is the likely cause, they will order further tests. Usually a blood test is involved, which helps to determine whether HIV is present.

Prevention

HIV, of course, is a very serious condition, one which most men wish to avoid. It is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, seriously weakening it and leaving one increasingly vulnerable to strong reactions to infections. In its most severe form, HIV is known as AIDS, and can leave a person open to fatal reactions to infections and diseases.

Fortunately, there have been many advances made in the treatment of AIDS. If a person is diagnosed early and begins treatment early, his chances of surviving are greatly improved.

However, early identification is crucial – so anyone who suspects he may have HIV, whether due to the presence of a penis rash or not, should see a doctor. Sexually active men, especially those with many partners, should be tested for HGIV (and other sexually-transmitted infections) regularly, often every three months.

The penis rash that may accompany HIV can be itchy and painful, so it pays to make use of a first rate penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) regularly. When the crème has a combination of first class moisturizers, such as shea butter and vitamin E, it can help create a moisture “lock” which can alleviate some of the itchiness associated with a penis rash. The crème should also include vitamin D, the so-called “miracle vitamin” which has proven benefits in fighting diseases and supporting healthy cellular function.