Penis Irritation From Running?

I am in my mid-twenties and have run for most of my life. I always run with mesh lined shorts.  About 3 years ago I noticed that after running the tip of my penis had some small red areas of discoloration (3-4 non-raised red bumps probably 1-2 mm) with no pain, itching, or drainage.  It went away in about 2 weeks with no other associated symptoms.  I have had no trouble since, until about 2 months ago I noticed the same thing, redness on the glans (glands) right after a long jog.  It went away in about 3 days but then upon running 2 days after it went away it came back again.  After the last time it subsided again in about 3 days.  I haven't run since and I wanted a professional opinion as to the possible cause of this. Could irritation be the sole/probable cause, or could irritation cause the appearance of an underlying infection? I have never been tested for any STDs, but am possibly concerned about herpes.  I am sexually active and use condoms.  Thanks.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Sounds like herpes.  I can't say for sure you don't have irritation from rubbing against underclothing while running, but seems unlikely.  See a health care provider.

Good luck--  HHH, MD