Itchy Penis Could It Be Caused by Lichen Sclerosis
Now that the internet is so much a part of people's lives, men find it much easier to locate information on what may be causing a sore or itchy penis or other possible penis health issues. With this resource at his fingertips, a man can find a wealth of information on why his penis is dry or what steps he can take if he notices red spots adorning his member. However, there are some organ issues for which it may be more difficult to locate information: for example, lichen sclerosis.
What is lichen sclerosis?
Lichen sclerosis is a skin disorder which, while more common in women, does also occur in men. Although it can occur in other parts of the body, it is most often found in the genitals. In women, lichen sclerosis is usually located on the vulva; in men, the primary spot for lichen sclerosis is the head of the penis.
Lichen sclerosis is a fairly rare condition; it is also much more likely to occur in men who are intact than in men who are circumcised; most of the time the condition is concentrated on the foreskin.
The condition usually presents initially as small, almost unnoticeable white spots. As the condition progresses, these become bigger and the skin gets more tender, thin and crinkly. In this state, the skin is vulnerable and tears more easily, creating discoloration and bleeding, as well as resulting in an accumulation of scar tissue. If too much tissue develops, it can cause the foreskin to become tighter and less flexible, making retraction an issue and causing discomfort to the glans.
What causes it?
Doctors at this time know little about lichen sclerosis. It is thought to be an immune disorder, but whether the cause is genetic or due to an outside source such as bacteria is uncertain.
Lichen sclerosis is not contagious, so those who experience do not need to fear passing it on to others.
Symptoms
As might be guessed, an itchy penis is one of the common symptoms. The scratching that accompanies this often leads to the tearing of the skin and the creation of the scar tissue. As mentioned, it may cause the foreskin to tighten, which may cause some discomfort when the penis erects. In some cases, there may be some pain when urinating, as the scarring can narrow the urethra. Build-up of scar tissue also can result in the penis losing some of its sensitivity, affecting pleasure during sexual activity.
Treatment
Men who develop lichen sclerosis on the foreskin are often advised to get circumcised (although the circumcision may only be partial), in order to totally remove the area that has been infected. Circumcision is often recommended rather than drug therapy because the medications typically used (corticosteroids) are used at a high strength; because of their potency, they can cause more severe reactions in the very sensitive penis skin.
Many intact men are resistant to circumcision; in these cases, they should discuss any possible options with their doctors. After getting all of the facts, they can then look through the options and work with their doctors to determine the treatment route that they should take.
Fortunately, lichen sclerosis is a rare skin disorder; for those who do acquire it, that itchy penis can be relieved through the regular application of a nourishing penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil). That desire to scratch will be alleviated if the chosen cream includes a powerful combination of moisturizing ingredients, such as shea butter (a highly regarded emollient) and vitamin E (one of nature's great hydrators). Since scarring can diminish penis sensitivity, a man with lichen sclerosis should make sure the cream also includes acetyl L carnitine, a neuroprotective ingredient that helps maintain proper sensation in the penis.
