Penile Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Penile enlargement (hematoma fibrosis?!)

Doctor: Hello, about three weeks ago, I may have injured myself during intercourse due to improper force or angle?! At that time, I didn't feel any pain...
and I didn't immediately experience erectile dysfunction...
Ten days ago, before attempting intercourse again, I noticed a small lump under my penis! I didn't think much of it at the time and proceeded with intercourse...
Afterwards, the area under my penis began to swell! In the past ten days, I have seen many doctors, and they all suggested monitoring the situation?! I have also been diligently taking medication for over ten days! However, the enlarged hard lump has not shown significant improvement! Could this be a sign of damage to the tunica albuginea?! Does it really take that long for the lump to resolve naturally?! Currently, during erections, I experience discomfort, possibly due to the lump?! The quality of my erections is poor, and there is pain! Will this affect my sexual function in the future?! Thank you for your help.

ken, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/05

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology

It appears that you have a rupture of the tunica albuginea, commonly referred to as penile fracture, compounded by the fact that you continued to engage in sexual activity, which has exacerbated the injury.
The hematoma seems to be difficult to resolve, especially since you have been experiencing repeated erections, which complicates the situation further.
It is advisable for you to consult a urologist for a thorough evaluation as soon as possible.
If necessary, surgical intervention may be required to repair the ruptured tunica.
Otherwise, this could lead to penile curvature in the future and may affect sexual function.
In the meantime, it is best to avoid any sexual stimulation and refrain from erections to prevent further rupture.

Reply Date: 2004/10/05

More Info

Understanding penile swelling, particularly after an incident that may have caused trauma, is crucial for addressing potential underlying issues and ensuring proper treatment. Based on your description, it seems you may have experienced a penile injury, possibly leading to a condition known as penile fracture or a hematoma, which can occur when there is trauma to the penis during sexual activity.

Causes of Penile Swelling
1. Trauma: The most common cause of penile swelling is trauma, which can occur during sexual intercourse, especially if there is an awkward angle or excessive force. This can lead to bruising or swelling due to blood accumulation in the tissues.

2. Peyronie's Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause curved, painful erections and may lead to swelling.

3. Infection: Infections can also cause swelling. Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to swelling and discomfort.

4. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to latex (from condoms) or other substances can cause localized swelling.

5. Lymphatic Obstruction: Conditions affecting the lymphatic system can lead to swelling in various parts of the body, including the penis.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Swelling: Persistent swelling, especially if it is accompanied by pain or discomfort.

- Pain: Pain during erections or when touching the swollen area.

- Changes in Erections: Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, which can be concerning.

- Discoloration: Bruising or changes in color of the skin on the penis.

- Discharge: Any unusual discharge from the penis may indicate an infection.

Treatment Options
1. Observation: If the swelling is mild and there are no severe symptoms, doctors may recommend a period of observation. This is often the case if the swelling is expected to resolve on its own.

2. Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and pain. If an infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed.

3. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

4. Avoiding Sexual Activity: It is advisable to refrain from sexual activity until the swelling has resolved and you have consulted with a healthcare provider.

5. Surgery: In cases where there is significant trauma, a hematoma, or if the swelling does not improve, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair any damage.

Concerns About Sexual Function
It is understandable to be concerned about the potential impact on sexual function. If the swelling persists and is accompanied by pain or difficulty achieving an erection, it is essential to consult a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies, to assess the extent of any injury and recommend appropriate treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, penile swelling following trauma can be concerning, and while many cases resolve with conservative management, persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns, as they can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. If you experience worsening symptoms or new issues arise, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly.

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