Penis Problems Unveiled: Exploring 6 Common Disorders
By Dr. David Samadi
Men take note—your penis could be signaling essential health issues that you shouldn’t ignore. While it’s natural to pay attention when something goes wrong downstairs, dismissing symptoms can lead to more significant health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, or even cancer.
Many men, particularly younger ones, often neglect regular checkups until their penis presents a problem that men can’t ignore.
Here are six common disorders that should prompt a visit to the doctor to ensure optimal penile health:
1. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
ED isn’t just a concern for older men; about one in four seeking treatment are under 40. ED is when a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sex. Psychological factors like performance anxiety, stress, or depression can contribute to ED in younger men. However, the absence of nocturnal erections may indicate underlying health issues like cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
What to do: Consult a urologist for a physical exam to rule out underlying conditions. Treatment options doctors may suggest include lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and exercise, and medications like Viagra or Cialis. A doctor may also suggest other options like penile pumps or topical medications for men to consider.
2. Penile Cancer
Penile cancer usually begins in the skin cells of the penis. Symptoms include skin color or thickness changes, lumps, ulcers, rashes, or abnormal discharge. Most cases stem from squamous cell carcinoma.
What to do: If any symptoms appear, seek immediate medical evaluation. Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage and grade and often involves surgery or radiation.
3. Balanitis
Balanitis is inflammation of the penis head (glans) and foreskin (balanoposthitis). Symptoms include pain, swelling, itching, rash, or discharge. Poor hygiene, infections (including sexually transmitted diseases), or dermatitis can cause balanitis.
What to do: Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Hygiene improvements and medications like antibiotics or antifungals are typical treatments. Severe or recurrent cases may require circumcision.
4. Penile Injury
The penis is vulnerable to injury, especially during sports. Trauma can lead to conditions like Peyronie’s disease, characterized by painful erections, ED, and penile curvature due to scar tissue buildup (plaque).
What to do: Mild cases may benefit from Xiaflex, an FDA-approved drug that breaks down scar tissue. Severe cases may require microsurgery to correct curvature.
5. Premature Ejaculation (PE)
Twenty-one percent of men aged 18-59 in the US are affected with PE, making it the most common male sexual disorder among this age group. It’s characterized by orgasming sooner than desired, causing frustration and dissatisfaction for both partners. PE may coexist with ED.
What to do: Consult a urologist for guidance. Techniques like applying gentle pressure to the penis base can help delay ejaculation. Addressing underlying causes such as stress or relationship issues may also be necessary.
6. Priapism
Priapism is a prolonged erection lasting over four hours, often unrelated to sexual activity and potentially painful. Causes include medications, substance abuse, spinal cord issues, or blood diseases.
What to do: Priapism is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage. Visit the emergency room for interventions like draining blood from the penis or medications to shrink blood vessels. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Conclusion
Understanding these conditions and seeking prompt medical attention when symptoms arise is crucial for maintaining penile health and overall well-being. Discuss concerns with a healthcare provider to ensure the best possible care and outcomes.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.