Penis Blisters: 7 Causes and How to Treat Them

Penis blisters are the type of thing a man notices reasonably quickly. Why? Because oftentimes, they are angry little buggers filled with pus and pain. Of course, when spotted, blisters on the penis can cause a lot of panic as they are often related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, there are a few every day, non-STI reasons for penis blisters, too. Let’s take a look at these causes and treatment options, as well as ways to keep penis blisters from forming in the future.

Penis Blister Causes

A host of things can cause penis blisters; here are 7 of the most common:

1) Friction - When the skin is repeatedly or too energetically rubbed when dry, it can create friction, leading to blisters. Doing this with the penis, as in the case of dry intercourse or self-gratification, can cause blisters on the penis. To treat, simply keep the area clean and in the air as much as possible.

2) Folliculitis - Commonly known as ingrown hairs, folliculitis happens when hair follicles get infected and fill with pus. They will clear up on their own; however, shaving products, like Tend Skin, will help calm and prevent razor burn and the resulting ingrown hairs.

3) Genital warts - A type of STI, genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus. They are generally itchy and look like little blisters, or sometimes they have a texture like cauliflower. Approximately 1 percent of all sexually active people in the United States have genital warts. When it comes to treatment, there are a few options for removal, which include freezing them off, laser surgery, or a prescription topical ointment to dissolve them. They are contagious for 2 weeks after removal, so be sure to refrain from any sexual activity during that time. A man can still spread the virus to his partners after this period, so be sure to use barrier protection when having relations.

4) Yeast infection - When naturally-occurring candida yeast in the body overgrows, it can cause white penis blisters that swell, itch, and emit a chunky, white discharge. Yeast infections are contagious and can be passed between partners, so wait until it is cleared up before resuming sexual activity. See a doctor for treatment, which usually involves either a pill or a topical cream, or a combination of both.

5) Herpes - The herpes simplex virus (HSV), an STI, is one of the most common origins of penis blisters. Herpes is quite contagious and cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. Herpes blisters on the penis start off , but then eventually burst and crust over. Once they get crusty, they will itch like nobody’s business and get red and angry. See a doctor or clinic immediately for treatment of the current outbreak and options for managing the condition.

6) Scabies - When the Sarcoptes scabiei mite tunnels into the skin, tiny, itchy blisters can form on the penis. These penis blisters will be most itchy at night when the mites are most active. Sometimes a man can have scabies for up to 6 weeks before he knows it. To treat scabies, see a doctor. Treatment will start with prescription creams and lotion, but if the infestation is persistent, oral medications will also be prescribed.

7) Syphilis - Bacteria cause this STI. Symptoms include rash, fever, hair loss, and swollen lymph glands in addition to blisters on the penis. Syphilis is a severe disease and should be caught as early as possible. If left untreated, it can result in blindness, loss of comprehension, and even death.

Prevent Penis Blisters

There are a few commonsense ways a man can avoid penis blisters from visiting his nether regions. The first is to practice safe sex. This means using condoms and barrier methods, and knowing a partner’s status before engaging in relations of any kind. A man should also be sure to use enough lubricant when having sex with a partner or when pleasuring himself to avoid friction.

A man should also employ good penis hygiene habits to keep the area supple and the skin healthy and pliable. Wash daily with a mild cleanser and warm water. Pat or air dry and then nourish the area with a specially formulated penis health oil (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin). These oils calm the skin and keep the area clean and bacteria-free. Use an oil made of natural moisturizing bases like shea butter and vitamin E. This will keep the skin soft while fortifying it.

A Sore Penis From Penis Blisters

Maintaining good penis health not only helps a penis feel better and function better, but it also makes it just plain look better - and sporting a good-looking penis is important, especially when that penis is first introduced to a new partner. Imagine the reaction one gets when presenting a smooth, sleek, unblemished penis - and when presenting one that is covered in penis blisters. Not a pretty picture. Worse, penis blisters can result in a sore penis, which can impact whether a man feels like performing sexually. So tending to penis blisters is a good idea.

Any eruption or irritation on the penis has the potential to create a sore penis. But blisters tend to be tender and sensitive anyway, making a sore penis very likely if it engages in anything involving friction - like sex. (If a guy has ever had a foot blister, imagine that on the penis - and how that would feel if it were put into action.)

Causes

What causes penis blisters, anyway? Well, there can be several causes.

- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). One of the worst-case scenarios when it comes to penis blisters is that they may be a result of an STI. Not every STI causes penis blisters - and often a man may not exhibit all of the symptoms associated with an STI, even if penis blisters is one of them. But when an STI is the cause, it requires immediate attention. Diagnosing the STI and getting early treatment are key - as is refraining from sexual engagement until the STI has been properly treated.

- Yeast infections. A much less scary (though still bothersome) infection, yeast infections have such a strong association with women that many men don’t realize they can come down with one as well . Yeast infections may cause white blisters to form on the penis (usually after the appearance of a red rash, typically on the head of the penis). Most often, yeast infections come from sex with an affected partner; in some cases, a yeast infection may develop following a man’s taking a course of antibiotics.

- Folliculitis. When hair follicles become inflamed, they often lead to the development of blisters that break and ooze pus all over the penis - not a pretty sight. Usually bacteria or a fungus is responsible.

- Parasites. Scabies or crabs, 2 common parasites that can be found in the penile area, are an itchy, messy nuisance - and in some cases, they can lead to the development of blisters and a subsequent sore penis. Usually this happens when any of their numerous bites become infected (which is more likely to happen when they are scratched vigorously).

- Cancer. Obviously, the fear of cancer is significant, and penis blisters are associated with penile cancer. However, it is rare, with about 2000 cases reported annually - so don’t panic if a blister is found.

- Rough handling. Let’s face it, in the throes of sexual passion (whether with another person or with one’s own hand), things can get pretty rough for the penis. And sometimes all that rough handling and friction can indeed lead to blisters and a sore penis.

If a guy discovers penis blisters, he should consult with a doctor to determine the cause and lay out a proper plan of treatment.

Penis blisters can contribute to a sore penis, and so it pays to regularly apply a superior penis health oil (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Keeping penis skin healthy can help, so look for an oil with both a high-end emollient (such as shea butter) and a natural hydrator (such as vitamin E). In addition, the oil should contain a potent antioxidant (such as alpha lipoic acid), which can protect delicate penis skin by fighting the damage caused by oxidative stress.

Five Dangerous Causes of Blisters on the Penis and How to Treat Them

Pus-filled, angry, red, and wince-inducing whenever they’re touched, blisters on the penis are a pain unlike many things. Often piercing and long-lasting, the discomfort can be intense. However, some penis blisters don’t hurt at all and lay in wait to become something a bit more insidious. While there are plenty of perfectly innocent reasons for blisters on the penis, like friction and folliculitis, there are also some more serious causes that need immediate special attention. Any man who believes he may have blisters on the penis from one of the below causes should see a medical practitioner ASAP.

The Dark Side of Blisters on the Penis: Serious Causes

Not to be a Negative Nellie, but penis blisters can be the result of some pretty serious stuff. These are a few of the most serious causes of blisters on the penis:

1) Herpes. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common causes of penis blisters, and blisters in the pelvic region overall. These blisters can be found anywhere in the nether region including the groin, pubic area, buttocks, and upper thighs. They can also occur in the mouth as well.

Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is spread through sexual contact with an infected person. Herpes can cause watery blisters which eventually burst then crust over, resulting in itching and redness. There is no cure for Herpes. Immediate care includes antiviral medications, washing the area with warm water and a gentle cleanser, and wearing loose clothes. Be sure to ask the diagnosing doctor for information on living with Herpes to preserve overall health and reduce the risk of transmitting it to current or future intimate partners.

2) Chancroid. Even the name sounds like a Star Wars villain. Another STI, chancroid appears as tiny, squishy, grayish blisters on the penis, scrotum, or other areas in the reproductive region. These blisters can pop or ooze, cause itchiness and swelling, and are painful to the touch. Treatment includes antibiotics and surgery to drain abscesses of pus.

3) Syphilis. Caused by bacteria, syphilis is another common sexually transmitted infection. According to the CDC, over 100 thousand people were diagnosed with syphilis in 2017. Symptoms include fever, skin rash, swollen lymph glands, and hair loss. The good news? It can be treated if caught in early stages. The bad news? If left to progress or it goes untreated, it can lead to loss of eyesight, loss of cognition, and even loss of life.

4) Warts. Rounding out the STI group, warts can appear blisteresque and often look “cauliflowery.” It is one of the most common STI’s out there, especially among young people. Men will need to use a cream to get rid of them. Larger clusters, however, may need to be frozen off by a skilled doctor.

5) Penile Cancer. It’s the big C. Penile cancer may start as a blister on the foreskin, head, or shaft of the penis. It may then morph into a wart-like growth that discharges blood or a particularly foul-smelling ooze. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Keep Blister off the Penis with These Tips

First, a note about sex. Notice that the first four of five serious cause of blisters on the penis were STIs? Before engaging in intimate contact with new partners, have a frank discussion about sex, including your sexual health. Be sure to use condoms and dental dams wherever necessary.

Second, have a solid hygiene ritual and during that ritual take a moment to inspect the goods. Wash daily with a mild cleanser and warm water. Pat dry and then moisturize the area with a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin). Crèmes such as these not only soothe the skin but also keep the area clean and bacteria free. Crèmes like this also keep the delicate penile skin in optimal condition making inspection easy so a man does mistake acne for a blister!

Penis Blisters: 5 Causes and How to Treat Them

They’re red, painful, and sometimes filled with pus. Penis blisters are unsightly and can cause a man to panic when he finds one. It’s important to point out, blisters on the penis can be caused by a variety of things, and not all of them are sexually transmitted diseases. However, most penis blisters have a specific cause that will usually call for the intervention of a medical practitioner. Once the possible cause is found, a treatment plan can be swiftly put into place. Furthermore, incorporating some common-sense penis care rules can help men to avoid blisters on their penis in the first place.

Penis Blister Causes

Here are some of the most commonly cited causes for penis blisters:

1) Folliculitis. This is where infected hair follicles create pus-filled blisters, generally around the hair shaft. It’s not contagious and will clear up on its own. However, adding a product that helps with razor burn, like Tend Skin, can help; as well as a proper grooming protocol involving regular cleansing and moisturizing with bi-weekly exfoliation.

2) Friction. Any sort of continual or vigorous dry rubbing can build up friction and cause blisters. Avoid wearing too-tight pants; and during any intimate contact (solo or with a partner), be sure to be properly lubricated.

3) Yeast infection. They aren’t just for women! Men too have Candida yeast in the body, and it can overgrow, causing itching, redness, swelling, chunky white discharge, and white blisters on the penis. Usually, treatment involves topical antifungal creams. It can be contagious, so refrain from sex and talk to any current sexual partners so they can get treated as well.

4) Herpes. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common causes of penis blisters, and blisters in the pelvic region overall and is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Herpes is spread through intimate contact and can cause watery blisters which eventually burst and crust over, leading to itching and redness. Those with HSV will require lifetime treatment to control outbreaks as there is currently no cure.

5) Syphilis. Syphilis is another common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It leads to symptoms such as fever, skin rash, swollen lymph glands, and hair loss. If caught in the early stages, it can be treated. If left untreated, this disease can lead to blindness, loss of cognition, and even death.

There are other causes of penis blisters, but these rank among the highest.

How to Keep Penis Blisters at Bay

By adding a few practical and easy tips to a man's lifestyle, he can do his best to ensure when he looks southward in the morning, there are only clear skies.

First, a note about intimacy. Take care to practice safe sex. That doesn't just mean using protection, that also means having in-depth conversations with partners. Herpes, for instance, usually lies dormant for a while after an outbreak, so it wouldn't be visually apparent, but it can still be contracted. When having sex or self-pleasuring, be sure to reduce friction by using a quality lubricant.

Second, have good hygiene habits. Wash daily with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Pat dry and then moisturize the area with a specially formulated penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin). Cremes such as these not only soothe the skin but also keep the area clean and bacteria free. Opt for cremes which a natural moisturizing base like Shea butter and vitamin E. Adding vitamins A, B, C, and D for their skin-soothing and cell regeneration properties is also a great idea.

Healthy Penis Tips: Avoiding Penis Blisters

When a man wants to maintain a healthy penis, he naturally looks for ways to avoid some of the most common penis problems. Penis blisters might not be that common, but they are certainly an issue that requires addressing in order to maintain the best penis health possible. Here’s what a man needs to know about penis blisters, including how to avoid them and how to treat them.

What are penis blisters?

Penis blisters can be frightening to see on a guy’s favorite equipment. They are just what they sound like - blisters, of the same nature that a person might get on their feet after walking for a long distance in ill-fitting shoes. They might be red or skin-tone. Some are filled with fluid while others appear more firm. They can open up to present red sores, just as a typical blister would. And they can hurt as well, especially when touched by anything, even the lightest touch of very soft underwear or a gentle stream of water in the shower.

What causes them?

There are can be many causes of penis blisters. Here are some of the most common.

1) Rough handling. Whether masturbating too vigorously or coupling with no lube, a guy can easily develop penis blisters and other penis problems through simple friction. Rough handling is probably the top reason a man develops any sort of penis blister, so it behooves the man who wants a healthy penis to invest in a good lubricant.

2) Sexually transmitted infections. These infections often present with a variety of red flags that point to a serious penis problem, such as penis blisters, discharge and pain. Herpes and syphilis are the two biggest culprits, but others can cause blisters as well. It’s important for all sexually active men to get checked for STDs on a regular basis.

3) Skin infections. Some infections of the skin can lead to serious open sores and blisters, especially if a man lets the problem go in the hopes it will resolve on its own. Inflammation of the skin follicles is a common culprit, especially for men who manscape. Another infection that can lead to penis blisters and sores is the yeast infection, which can lead to blisters that look very wet and watery. There might also be a foul odor associated with yeast infections.

4) Scabies or crabs. When dealing with parasites, there is always the chance of infection after getting bitten. Such is the case with scabies and crabs, both of which love to feast on a human’s nether regions. Scratching the bitten areas can lead to even more open cuts and sores, which in turn can lead to blisters, sores and more.

5) Penis cancer. Though this is a very rare reason for penis blisters, it bears talking about to help ensure a man maintains a healthy penis and spots the early signs of penis cancer. Suspicious blisters, spots, moles, sores and the like that seem to have no easily discernable cause might in fact be penis cancer, so a man needs to get checked out if he notices problems that don’t correspond with anything that makes sense - for example, when he has all the signs of a serious STD but he’s never actually had sexual contact.

What’s a man to do when he encounters a penis blister? He should go back through the list of possible reasons and try to figure out which one pertains to his situation. He should also step up his penis care regimen through the daily use of a good penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). A proper crème will contain important ingredients, such as alpha lipoic acid to fight free radicals and vitamin A to fight penis odor, as well as other vitamins and amino acids intended to help maintain a healthy penis.

Living with Penile Eczema - Tips for Coping with Itchy, Dry, Irritable Skin

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory condition of the skin. People with eczema may experience dry, red and inflamed rashes, blistering skin, and intense itching; this condition can affect any part of the body, and it can cause significant embarrassment in addition to the discomfort.

For men who are affected by penile eczema, the impact of the disease can be especially devastating. Sex may uncomfortable or even painful during flare-ups; and many men may be reluctant to expose penis blisters to a partner.

However, by taking the right precautions and using the right approach to skin and penis care, men can avoid some common eczema triggers and minimize the flare-ups for smoother, more attractive skin.

Tips for preventing flare-ups and soothing itchy, dry skin
 
1. Don’t… scratch the itch. Scratching or rubbing at irritated skin can cause tiny tears that increase the risk of infection. Men should resist the urge and try applying a moisturizer or a cool compress, instead. In some cases, doctors may recommend taking an oral antihistamine - men should always check with a medical professional before taking an over-the-counter medication. It can also be helpful to wear a light pair of gloves to bed in order to prevent scratching during sleep.

2. Bathe… once or twice per day. Rather than taking a long, hot shower, which can sap the skin of its natural oils, take short showers in lukewarm water. A mild, non-allergenic cleanser is best; and rinse carefully to make sure all traces of soap and shampoo are washed away. It is also important to avoid vigorous rubbing with a towel; instead, pat the skin dry carefully with a soft cloth.

3. Moisturize… several times a day. Keeping the skin hydrated can help prevent peeling and flaking, as well as soothing the itch and discomfort. Look for creams or oils without fragrances or alcohol that can irritate the skin.

4. Wear… loose-fitting, breathable clothing. Fabrics that chafe or do not allow the skin to breathe properly should be avoided, as these can exacerbate the symptoms of eczema.

5. Monitor… the temperature. Getting too hot or too cold can trigger outbreaks. After exercising, shower to cool the skin and wash away sweat, which can also lead to flare-ups.

6. Avoid… allergens. Many men who have eczema also have various allergies. A specialist can help to identify any substances which are likely to trigger an allergic reaction in an individual; these should be avoided as much as possible. If the skin does come in contact with a known allergen, it should be washed immediately.

7. Reduce. Daily stress. Stress is yet another factor that can trigger an outbreak of eczema; men who are able to reduce the amount of stress they deal with, or who can develop coping strategies that work for them, are less likely to experience frequent flare-ups.

Caring for the penis
 
In addition to the steps outlined above, men who experience occasional or frequent flare-ups of penile eczema should take extra precautions in terms of penis care. Using a non-allergenic, water-based lube during sex or masturbation can help to reduce friction that may irritate sensitive skin. Using non-latex protection is often recommended, as men with skin issues are often sensitive to latex products.

Washing with warm water and a mild cleanser, then patting the area dry before dressing, is recommended. To keep the skin well-hydrated and reduce potential itching, a specially formulated penis health cream (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can be applied to the penile skin once or twice per day. Natural moisturizers such as Shea butter, as well as penis-specific nutrients, can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of stressed, dry and itchy penis skin.

STI Management– Tips for Coping and Self-Care

In spite of educational efforts and the easy availability of protection, the number of patients diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, or STI, continues to increase each year, particularly among teenagers and young adults. This problem makes it clear that not everyone takes the risks seriously – at least until it happens to them.

At the first sign of penis blisters, sores, discharge, or anything else out of the ordinary, men are prone to panic, wondering who could have infected them and whether they are now doomed to a life alone, with no hope of enjoying sex again. A positive diagnosis of an STI can be truly devastating; not only in terms of the symptoms of the infection itself, but also in terms of the personal consequences. Fortunately, many STIs can be treated successfully, and with the right approach to penis care, men can overcome the physical and emotional effects and enjoy a happy, healthy, and safe sex life.

What is an STI, anyway?

A sexually transmitted infection is any infectious condition that is transmitted through sexual contact, whether through skin-on-skin contact or through the sharing of body fluids. Many STIs are caused by bacteria; these can generally be treated through a course of antibiotics. However, a large number of infections are viral in nature; while some of these may eventually be eliminated from the body, others are not curable, and those who have contracted them will face a lifetime of medications and the possibility of infecting a romantic partner.

Symptoms of STIs vary according to the cause, but many recognizable signs include fever, sore throat, blisters or warts on the genitals, itching, and discharge from the penis. On the other hand, it is important to keep in mind that not all infected individuals show any outward symptoms, but they can still pass the disease on to a partner. Therefore, safe sex and frequent testing are essential for all sexually active people.

Four tips for managing the physical and emotional effects

Aside from the uncomfortable and embarrassing physical symptoms of an STI, men who are infected face problems like loss of self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. The following tips can help men and their partners to manage these concerns and take the most positive steps possible toward recovery.

1. Know the enemy – understanding the disease and its implications is essential to treating it properly. Men who are infected should find out everything they can about the condition, as well as how it is treated, and should not be afraid to ask for help from trained medical professionals.

2. Stop the blame – it can be easy to feel hurt and betrayed when the signs of an STI appear. However, a sexually transmitted infection is not always a sign that a partner has been unfaithful. Either partner could easily have been infected in a previous relationship, so blaming one another is only likely to result in more hurt and distress.

3. Seek counseling­ – men who have a communicable disease often feel a great loss of self-worth and may feel socially isolated after contracting an infection. Joining a support group or talking to a sex counselor can be a good way to put things in perspective and learn how to manage the stress and anxiety.

Care for the penis – Adequate care not only helps the penis to look and feel better; it can also increase its resistance to certain types of infections and diseases and help it heal. Penis skin that is well-hydrated and free of blemishes, microscopic cracks resulting from dryness, and built-up smegma is more likely to be resistant to external invaders that can cause unpleasant symptoms. To keep the skin healthy and resilient, washing every day with a mild cleanser is a must. Following up a shower with application of a high-quality penis health formula  (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) helps to maintain moisture while nourishing the skin with vitamins and other nutrients that are designed to target penis health. In addition, it goes without saying that sexually active men should keep open lines of communication with partners about any exposure to an STI and should use protection for every encounter

Penis Blisters, Pain and Itching – When Herpes Isn’t the Answer

Every male who has been through a high school health class is aware of the symptoms of herpes. Signs of blisters filled with fluid, itching and soreness are common indicators of this sexually transmitted virus. However, herpes simplex is not an inevitable diagnosis when these symptoms appear.

Shingles, known medically as herpes zoster, is a virus which is also characterized by blisters and itching; however, it is not considered as an STD. Understanding the symptoms can help men to make informed decisions about their treatment. Suggestions on caring for the penis and maintaining sexual health are also provided here.

What is shingles, exactly?

Shingles is an inflammatory condition of the nerves and surrounding skin. It is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox – the herpes varicella-zoster virus (or simply zoster virus). Anyone who has had the chickenpox can develop shingles, usually later in life – generally after the age of 50. The varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the body once an individual has recovered from chicken pox, but it can be reactivated much later, resulting in the symptoms of shingles.

What are the symptoms?

Most patients describe the initial symptoms as tingling or pain and tenderness of the skin. In 2-3 days after the appearance of these symptoms, a clustered red rash may appear. The rash may resolve into blisters that appear to be filled with water. The rash generally clears up on its own after 2-3 weeks; however, intense itching and pain – a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia – may continue for months, or even years, after the initial symptoms have disappeared.

Blisters on the penis: The blisters most often appear on the torso and buttocks, but they can also affect the genitalia, including the head and shaft of the penis. Severe penis itching may accompany the blisters. The penis symptoms of shingles closely resemble those of the herpes simplex virus, an incurable STD that is highly contagious. Any sign of a blistering rash on the penis should be evaluated by a doctor.

Other flu-like symptoms may accompany the disease, including fever, headache, upset stomach or abdominal pain, fatigue, confusion and memory loss.

Is herpes zoster contagious?

Shingles are only contagious if the blisters are broken, and will only affect individuals who have not had chicken pox. However, they will develop chicken pox, not shingles.

Risk factors

Anyone who has had chicken pox can develop shingles; however, it is more common in individuals with a suppressed immune system, such as people with HIV/AIDS or those who are receiving radiation or chemotherapy. Certain bone and lymphatic cancers also increase the risk of developing shingles.

Treatment

While shingles will resolve on its own, more severe cases may be treated with an antiviral medication – particularly when it affects the eyes or causes penis blisters. As with chickenpox, using pain relievers, cool compresses and anti-itch formulas such as calamine lotion may help to ease the itching, burning sensation.

Daily care for the penis skin

While caring for the penis does not mean that problems such as shingles won’t occur, taking good care of the equipment can help to keep it in top condition and help boost the body’s resistance to disease. Cleaning the penis every day can prevent a buildup of bacteria that increases the risk for infection – not to mention unpleasant odors. Adding a penis nutrient cream  (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) to the personal care routine can help to ensure that the penis is well-nourished and resistant to minor skin damage and that the skin retains its natural moisture balance – all important factors in maintaining overall penile health.

Penis Scabies – Recognizing the Signs

Any man can develop penis scabies, regardless of his age, race or lifestyle. Even men who are attentive about their personal hygiene may become infected. Unfortunately, scabies will not go away without treatment, so ignoring them and hoping they will disappear on their own is not an option. Scabies symptoms are similar to those of some sexually transmitted diseases, so a professional diagnosis is needed to determine the best course of action. Recognizing the signs of a possible scabies infection is the first step in treating the condition and restoring penis health.

What is scabies?

Scabies is a parasitic infection caused by tiny mites that are known scientifically as Sarcoptes scabiei. The infection is highly contagious and can easily be spread from one person to another, as well as to other parts of the body. Scabies typically affects areas of the body such as the armpits, in between the fingers, in the folds of the neck, behind the knees, at the waistline and on the feet; scabies may also affect the penis and scrotum. Scabies is not technically a sexually transmitted disease, but the mites can be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as any other close personal contact or the sharing of towels, clothing or bedding. Transmission is from human to human; people do not contract scabies from pets or other animals.

Signs of scabies on the penis

The first symptom most men experience when infected by scabies is intense itching, which often becomes much worse at night. The itching may be accompanied by a rash on the penis, scrotum, or other parts of the body, or men may develop penis blisters, bumps and/or burrow tracks from the mites. While the itching can be severe, scratching is not a good idea, as this can cause further damage to the skin and lead to bacterial infection on top of the scabies infestation.

Testing for penis scabies

Men who have symptoms of scabies should be tested by a doctor, and anyone else who lives with them or has close personal contact should be tested and treated, as well. Testing for scabies involves taking a skin sample, usually with a swab; this is generally not painful and can be done in a doctor’s office.

Treatment

Treating scabies generally requires applying a topical cream prescribed by a doctor; the cream should be used for the recommended time, even if the symptoms seem to ease, in order to ensure that the pests have been completely eliminated. In some instances, penis scabies may be treated with oral medications, particularly in instances when topical creams cause irritation of the delicate penis skin. Antihistamines may also be used to treat the itching caused by the infection.

Usually, all members of a household are treated at the same time, whether or not they are showing signs of infection, because it may take several days after infestation for symptoms to appear. Sexual partners should also be treated, even if they do not cohabitate.

Preventing reinfection

Besides using medications to eliminate the parasites from the body, all bedding, clothing, towels, and other personal items, as well as carpeting, should be thoroughly cleaned; otherwise, reinfection is likely.

Rejuvenating the penis

While preventing scabies is not always possible, there are some steps that men can take to speed healing once the pests have been eliminated from the body. A penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that is rich in skin-replenishing vitamins such as A and C can help to restore an even tone and texture and may help to reduce the chances of scarring from the burrow tracks left by the mites; natural emollients such as shea butter are also effective in reducing scarring and leaving the skin clear and smooth.