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Urology  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Genitals itched - now penis/urethra hurts
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Genitals itched - now penis/urethra hurts

by loofa133, Sep 30, 2003 12:00AM
A few days ago my genitals itched - a lot. They itched constantly and non stop, at the base of the penis and around the scrotum and down to the anus - it got to be very annoying. Last night, after about the third day of it, I thought I either had jock itch (which I have never had before) or my skin was possibly dry and that is why it was itching. So I placed moisturizer in the area before bed in hopes that this would stop the itching.



Checking out the areas, I can see no noticeable rash or anything of the sorts.  The only thing out of the ordinary, is one single small tiny pimple looking spot near the base of my penis. Also, on the back side of my penis are several small tiny pimple looking things. I think these have always been there, but they may be new. I am not totally sure. Could this be herpes?



Anyhows, later today, the itching subsided and now the shaft of my penis burns a decent amount along the urethra. The skin looks slightly red along the urethra.



I made an appointment with my doctor later this week to get it checked out and to get tested for std's.



I had protected sex at the beginning of the month.



Any ideas on what this might be? Herpes?



Thanks!



by Kevin Pho, MD, Sep 30, 2003 12:00AM
A reaction to a detergent, fabric softener or material in your underwear (i.e. dermatitis), or a fungal infection would be the most common causes of the itchy symptoms.  



Herpes and STDs are certainly possibilities - it is definitely wise to have the appropriate tests when you see your physician.  



In the meantime, you may want to try use a hypoallergenic or non-deodorant soap in the genital area.  Antifungal or steroid creams can also be considered to see if the lesion responds (i.e. if it is a fungal reaction or dermatitis).  



Followup with your personal physician is essential.



This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.



Thanks,

Kevin, M.D.

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