Urological Concerns: Is It Herpes or Something Else?

May I ask the doctor?

Doctor, I discovered a small bump about 1.5mm in size, resembling a blister, located at the site of my circumcision scar just behind the penis three days ago.
It is not painful and does not itch.
I tend to be very sensitive about any issues regarding my penis, so I become quite anxious at the slightest problem.
After learning that herpes can cause blisters, I became very worried and squeezed the area to see if it was indeed a blister.
I'm not sure if it is a blister, but I squeezed quite hard.
After two days, I noticed a small dark area that looks like a scab, but not quite, and it is slightly painful when touched.
My questions are: 1.
Can I contract herpes if I have never engaged in any sexual activity? Is it possible to get it from using a public restroom? 2.
What symptoms are typically associated with a herpes infection? I am really quite concerned.
Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Ake, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/30

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, regarding herpes, according to previous statistics from Taiwan, the overall carrier rate is over 80% (meaning that 80% of people carry the virus), but it generally remains latent and does not cause symptoms until the immune system is compromised.
The typical symptoms of herpes primarily include blisters, which may be accompanied by pain and itching.
As for the transmission routes, direct contact with the pathogen is the main mode of transmission; however, since most people are carriers, the source and process of transmission become less significant.
This is a response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-kai, Director of Urology at Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2004/08/30

More Info

Understanding your concerns regarding potential urological issues, particularly in relation to herpes, is important for both your physical and mental well-being. Let’s address your questions and provide some context based on medical knowledge.

1. Can you get herpes without any sexual activity?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, which typically occurs during sexual activity. However, it is also possible to contract herpes through non-sexual means, such as kissing someone with an active oral herpes outbreak (HSV-1) or through contact with contaminated surfaces, though this is much less common. The likelihood of contracting herpes from a public restroom is extremely low, as the virus does not survive long outside the human body. Therefore, if you have never engaged in sexual activity, your risk of having contracted herpes is minimal.

2. What are the symptoms of a herpes infection?
Herpes infections can present with a variety of symptoms. The initial outbreak often includes painful blisters or sores at the site of infection, which can be accompanied by itching, burning, or tingling sensations. Other systemic symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise. However, many individuals may experience mild symptoms or none at all, leading to undiagnosed cases. If the lesions you are observing are not painful blisters but rather small bumps that do not cause discomfort, they may not be related to herpes.

3. What should you do about the black spot and discomfort?
The black spot you described, especially after squeezing the area, could be a result of trauma to the skin, such as bruising or a scab forming from irritation. It is crucial to avoid squeezing or picking at any lesions, as this can lead to further irritation or infection. If the area is painful or if you notice any changes, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend tests to determine the nature of the lesion.

4. When to seek medical advice?
Given your concerns and the changes you’ve observed, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation, which may include a visual inspection and possibly a swab test if there is a suspicion of herpes or another infection. This will help alleviate your anxiety and provide clarity regarding your condition.

5. General advice for skin lesions in sensitive areas:
- Avoid self-diagnosis: It’s easy to jump to conclusions based on symptoms or online information. A healthcare professional can provide accurate diagnoses.

- Maintain hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants.

- Monitor symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lesion or surrounding skin, including pain, itching, or discharge.

In summary, while your concerns about herpes are understandable, especially given the sensitive nature of the symptoms, the likelihood of contracting herpes without sexual activity is low. The lesion you described may not be related to herpes, particularly if it is not painful or blister-like. Consulting with a healthcare provider will provide you with the best course of action and peace of mind.

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