Fast Facts about Penis Sores – Understanding Behçet’s Disease

Men who suffer from frequent, recurring penis sores or ulcers, accompanied by mouth sores, may have an inflammatory condition known as Behçet’s Disease (sometimes referred to as Behçet’s Syndrome). Because symptoms such as penis ulcers are also characteristic of numerous other health conditions, this autoimmune disorder often goes undiagnosed. While there is no known cure, the symptoms can be managed once a positive diagnosis has been reached; and with the right attention to treatment and penis care, men who are affected can enjoy a fairly normal lifestyle. What is Behçet’s Disease? Behçet’s disease is a systemic disorder in which the immune system attacks the blood vessels, causing inflammation. Men who are affected may experience flare-ups when they come in contact with pathogens in the environment which trigger the body’s immune function. Is it contagious? Behçet’s Syndrome is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through physical contact. Men who have Behçet’s can generally enjoy normal intimacy; an open conversation can help partners to understand the condition. Who gets Behçet’s Disease? Behçet’s Syndrome is fairly rare in the United States, but it is more common in other parts of the world. Medical researchers are not sure what causes the disorder, but it appears to have a hereditary component; in other words, it may be passed from parents to children. What are the Symptoms? Symptoms of Behçet’s include recurring ulcers in the mouth, as well as penis sores. Those who are affected may also develop sores on other parts of the body; in some cases, inflammation of the eyes, or even blindness, may accompany the disease. Symptoms of arthritis such as joint pain and swelling may also occur. Diagnosing Behçet’s Disease Behçet’s syndrome can be fairly difficult to detect, because so many of the symptoms can be attributed to other health conditions. Many men with the disorder may believe they have herpes or another sexually transmitted infection due to the presence of mouth and penis ulcers. It may take years before a positive diagnosis is made. The main markers for diagnosis include mouth sores that occur three or more times in a year, genital sores, eye inflammation and/or blurred vision. Treatment As previously mentioned, there is currently no cure for Behçet’s disease. Individuals who have this condition may require various types of treatment to address all of the symptoms. Treatment generally involves controlling the outbreaks and reducing any accompanying pain. Corticosteroids may be used to help reduce the inflammation, and in more severe cases, immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed. Men are also encouraged to rest during flare-ups to minimize the severity of the symptoms. Self-care for the Penis Men who have been diagnosed with Behçet’s Syndrome should first and foremost follow their doctor’s recommendations for treatment. In addition, attention to overall self-care can help affected individuals to reduce the occurrence of flares; men with Behçet’s should be sure to eating a healthy diet, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and engage in moderate exercise on a regular basis. Taking care of the skin may also help to prevent the penetration of viruses and bacteria that can trigger flare-ups of the disease. In between flares, men can work to improve the general condition of the penis skin by applying a moisture-rich penis health cream (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) fortified with vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants needed for maintaining supple, resilient penis skin. Creams like this should not be applied to open sores or broken skin, and men with compromised immune systems should always check with a doctor before use. However, many individuals, including those with normal immune function, can benefit from a quality penis vitamin formula.