Persistent White-Yellow Discharge from Penis: Causes and Urgent Care

The penis is continuously discharging a white or yellow fluid?

Hello doctor, I just noticed in the past two days that my genital area has been continuously discharging a yellowish-white fluid.
It reappears shortly after I wipe it away.
Previously, I experienced a slight burning sensation in the urethra while urinating, which improved somewhat after drinking water.
This has likely been happening for about a week.
I researched online and suspect it might be prostatitis, but I haven't found anyone who has continuous discharge like this.
I have also started experiencing headaches.
I'm currently in a country with less advanced medical care.
Could you please advise me on how to handle this urgently? Thank you.

Ji, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/24

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It sounds a bit like gonorrhea; you should go to the hospital for an injection as soon as possible! Oral medications may not be effective.

Reply Date: 2021/06/24

More Info

Persistent white-yellow discharge from the penis, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as burning during urination and headaches, can be indicative of several medical conditions, most commonly urethritis or prostatitis. Given your symptoms and the duration of the discharge, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially since you are experiencing additional symptoms like headaches.

Possible Causes
1. Urethritis: This is an inflammation of the urethra, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. It can lead to a discharge that may be white, yellow, or greenish in color. The burning sensation during urination is also a common symptom.

2. Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause similar symptoms, including discharge, pain during urination, and sometimes systemic symptoms like fever or headaches. Chronic prostatitis can lead to persistent symptoms and requires medical evaluation.

3. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) that can cause discharge and irritation. It may be due to infections, poor hygiene, or irritants.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): In addition to urethritis, other STIs can cause discharge and should be ruled out, especially if there is a history of unprotected sexual contact.

Urgent Care Recommendations
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given the persistence of your symptoms and the presence of additional symptoms like headaches, it is critical to seek medical care. If you are in a location with limited medical facilities, try to find the nearest clinic or hospital that can provide care.
2. Hydration: Continue to drink plenty of fluids, as staying hydrated can help alleviate some urinary symptoms. However, this is not a substitute for medical treatment.

3. Avoid Irritants: Until you can see a healthcare provider, avoid any potential irritants, such as soaps or lotions that may exacerbate the symptoms.
4. Sexual Activity: Refrain from any sexual activity until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional. This is important not only for your health but also to prevent potential transmission of infections to partners.

5. Document Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the nature of the discharge, any pain or discomfort, and any other systemic symptoms like fever or chills. This information will be helpful for the healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Persistent white-yellow discharge from the penis is a symptom that should not be ignored, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like burning during urination and headaches. It is essential to seek medical evaluation promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Conditions like urethritis and prostatitis can lead to complications if left untreated, so timely medical intervention is crucial.

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