Penile Itching ABCs From Allergies to Yeast Infection

  • Added:
    Jul 13, 2014
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Penile Itching ABCs From Allergies to Yeast Infection Photo by John Dugan

When penile itching occurs, men can’t help but take notice - as well they should. While an itchy penis may be the result of nothing more than a sweaty groin area, some causes of itching are more complicated and require appropriate treatment. Some of the most common culprits when it comes to an itchy groin area are described here, along with the penis care tips men can use to soothe inflamed, irritated skin.

Allergies: An allergy refers to an exaggerated immune system reaction to a substance that is otherwise harmless. Men who have a family history of allergies, or who have had allergic reactions on other parts of the body, may experience allergic reactions on the penile skin. Triggers may include insect bites, plants, chemicals in personal care products, and a host of other irritants found in the environment. Care generally involves washing the area to remove all traces of the irritant and applying an anti-allergy cream to the area.

Bug bites/stings: A bug bite or sting to the penis can cause severe itching, even in men who are not allergic. Treating the area with cool compresses and analgesic skin creams can help. If a sting occurs, it is important to make sure the stinger has fallen out, and to carefully remove it if it has remained in the skin.

Dermatitis: Dermatitis is a generalized term that refers to skin irritation related to contact with something in the environment; triggers may include poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, detergents, skin creams, and so on. To relieve the itch related to contact dermatitis, wash the area carefully with warm, not hot, water. An analgesic or cortisone cream may be used to help soothe the irritation.

Eczema: Eczema refers to an inflammation of the skin that can be caused by a variety of factors. Individual triggers may vary and may include anything from sun exposure to certain skin care products to plants. Eczema can produce a red, itchy rash with sores that ooze and crust; discoloration of the skin may also occur. Eczema outbreaks are often treated with cortisone creams. Keeping the skin clean, dry and moisturized can help reduce outbreaks.

Jock itch: This is a fungal infection caused by the fungus tinea cruris, a relative of athlete’s foot. Jock itch presents as a red, spreading rash with a distinctive ring pattern; it can cause mild to severe itching, or no itching at all. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal creams; men with jock itch should use an antifungal cream for the full time period recommended in order to prevent the rash from recurring.

Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an immune disorder that can cause a red, scaly rash on any part of the body, including the penis. It is not contagious, but it can cause severe discomfort and social embarrassment. Men should follow their doctor’s recommendations for treatment, which may include the use of cortisone creams. Vitamins A and E may also help to reduce itching and the appearance of scaly, flaky, red skin.

STDs: Many types of sexually transmitted infections can cause itching, and their symptoms can be similar to other issues described here. For this reason, it is important to seek medical attention for unexplained rashes, itching and inflammation, and sexually active men should be tested regularly for STDs, whether or not they have any symptoms.

Yeast infection: Yeast infection on the penis is often, but not always, the result of intimate contact with a partner who also has a yeast infection. It can cause extreme itching, redness, swelling, a discharge, and the appearance of dry, cracked skin. Yeast infections are usually treated with over the counter antifungal creams; both partners should be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection.

Lasting protection for the penis

While it is not always possible to avoid the triggers that can cause penile itching, some attention to good hygiene and daily care of the skin can help. Keeping the area clean is essential, of course, and known allergens and irritants should be avoided. In addition, applying a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) every day after a shower can lock in moisture and nourish the delicate penile tissue, leaving it soft, smooth and well-hydrated.

Author's Profile

Visit www.man1health.com for more information about treating common penis health problems, including soreness, redness and loss of penis sensation. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.


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