Penis Problems – A Glossary of Common Disorders

Most men are intimately familiar with the landscape of their penis and the surrounding area, and any unusual marks, freckles, blotches, spots, warts or bumps are immediately noticed and scrutinized. Depending on a man’s personal history, it can be easy to jump to conclusions about a recent partner or to worry about the possibility of cancer or disfiguring conditions. To help men understand the common issues that can affect the penis and determine when immediate penis treatment is needed, a glossary of common penis problems is provided here. While this list is not exhaustive, it covers some of the more common issues that can affect the family jewels. Acne - As with the rest of the body, the skin of the penis may develop acne pustules, pimples or cysts. Acne on the manhood may appear as red, raised bumps that may have a whitish tip. A whitish material may be expressed from the pimples, but it is not a good idea to squeeze them, as this can spread the bacteria that cause acne and make the problem worse. Acne should clear up on its own, but applying topical vitamin A may help to speed healing. Balanitis - This is a fairly common and easily treatable condition that affects men who are uncircumcised. Balanitis is characterized by swelling, itching, redness, the appearance of "cracks" on the foreskin, soreness, and a whitish or yellowish discharge. Prescription antibiotics can help to clear up the problem, and men can avoid recurrences by washing carefully under the foreskin. Folliculitis - Infected hair follicles often occur around the base of the penis, especially in men who shave their pubic hair. The infected area resembles acne, and again, the bumps should not be squeezed. Keeping the area clean and moisturized should help to clear up the issue, and shaving with a new razor and applying a soothing cream afterward may help to prevent the problem from recurring. Herpes - Herpes simplex is a viral infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. It is characterized by blisters, pain and itching on the penis; the blisters may burst and scab over. Men who contract herpes can pass the infection on to a partner even when no symptoms are present. There is no cure for herpes, and lifelong treatment is needed to manage the symptoms. Jock Itch - Known medically as tinea cruris, jock itch is a fungal infection that generally affects the groin area, rather than the penis. It appears as a red, spreading rash that may be extremely itchy. Topical antifungal medications can clear up the infection; men should be sure to apply the cream for the entire recommend time period, even if symptoms disappear. Peyronie’s Disease - This condition, which appears as a severely bent or curved erect penis and shortening of the shaft, is the result of built-up scar tissue related to injury or chronic rough treatment. Peyronie’s disease can cause painful erections and even impotence. Surgery is often the best option for treatment, although many studies have shown positive results from use of vitamin E. Priapism - This condition is named for a Greek fertility god, but it is not a positive sign. Priapism, an erection that lasts for more than four hours and is not the result of sexual stimulation, occurs when blood becomes trapped in the penis and cannot exit. This is considered a medical emergency and must be treated by a doctor to avoid permanent injury. Taking care In addition to knowledge of the penis conditions that may affect sexual health, taking proper care of the package is essential to long-term wellness and function. Eating right, getting plenty of exercise, making smart choices about partners, and keeping it clean are all important in maintaining a healthy penis. Men can also help to boost the body’s natural defenses and keep the equipment in top form by making a penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) part of their daily personal care routine. A cream that is enriched with penis-specific vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and antioxidants can be easily absorbed into the targeted tissues, ensuring maximum benefit.