Distress
Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a question.
A few months ago, I went to the hospital due to some issues with my genital area.
The symptoms included pain at the urethral opening, which worsened when wearing tight underwear.
The skin on my glans became wrinkled, and I started developing small bumps on my shoulders, upper back, and buttocks.
I also experienced a slight itching sensation in various areas of my skin, similar to the feeling of ants crawling.
Additionally, I often felt pain on the left side of my penis and in the left groin area, and my left anal area felt uncomfortable.
I also had severe lower back pain, which only occurred at certain angles.
When I went to the hospital for a check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with prostatitis and conducted a urinalysis (though there were no abnormalities on the glans at that time).
I was prescribed medication, but it seemed like the problem was not resolved.
Later, I visited another doctor who only conducted a consultation and prescribed some anti-inflammatory medication, but my condition still did not improve.
Eventually, I decided to ignore it, and after a long period of time, about six to eight months later, my lower back pain eased, and the small bumps have mostly stopped appearing (on my shoulders and back).
Now, I have larger pimples concentrated in the buttock area, with fewer on my back.
The skin on my glans remains wrinkled, and I still experience pain on the left side of my penis and in the left groin area, although it is occasional.
Why is this happening? (I have never engaged in risky sexual behavior, so it shouldn't be a sexually transmitted infection, right?) I would appreciate your clarification.
Thank you!
Mr. Smith, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/08
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Mr.
Smith: Hello, based on your description, I am unable to make a diagnosis and can only speculate.
I believe it could be some type of skin infection, such as folliculitis.
I recommend seeing a dermatologist, as it should be helpful.
If it's inconvenient to expose the area, I suggest taking a digital camera to show the lesions, which can also serve as a reference for the clinical physician.
Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Director Hsu Wei-Kai.
Response.
Reply Date: 2005/08/08
More Info
Understanding urological issues can be quite complex, especially when symptoms are varied and persistent. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms, including urethral pain, changes in the appearance of the glans (the head of the penis), skin issues, localized pain, and discomfort in the pelvic region. Let’s break down these symptoms and explore potential causes and considerations.
1. Urethral Pain and Discomfort: Urethral pain can arise from various conditions, including infections (like urethritis), inflammation, or irritation. Given your history of prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), it’s possible that you may be experiencing a recurrence or a related condition. Chronic prostatitis can lead to ongoing discomfort and urinary symptoms, even after initial treatment appears successful.
2. Changes in the Glans: The wrinkling of the glans can be a normal anatomical variation, but it can also indicate irritation or inflammation. Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or other dermatological issues could be contributing to this symptom. If there is no visible infection or discharge, it may be worth considering a dermatological evaluation.
3. Skin Issues: The appearance of "bumps" or acne-like lesions on your body, particularly in the shoulder, back, and buttocks areas, could suggest a dermatological condition such as folliculitis or acne. These skin conditions can sometimes be exacerbated by hormonal changes, stress, or even certain medications. The sensation of "ants crawling" on your skin could be related to nerve irritation or a dermatological issue.
4. Localized Pain: The pain you describe on the left side of your penis and groin, along with discomfort near the anus, could be indicative of referred pain from the prostate or pelvic floor muscles. Chronic pelvic pain syndrome can manifest in various ways, including pain in the genital region, lower back, and even the abdomen.
5. Prostate Concerns: Since you have a history of prostatitis, it’s essential to consider that chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) could be at play. This condition can be challenging to treat and may require a multidisciplinary approach, including urology, physical therapy, and possibly psychological support.
6. Diagnostic Considerations: Given the persistence of your symptoms, it would be prudent to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a urologist. This may include a thorough physical examination, urine tests, and possibly imaging studies to rule out any underlying issues such as stones or structural abnormalities. If the urologist suspects a dermatological issue, a referral to a dermatologist may also be beneficial.
7. Lifestyle and Management: In the meantime, consider lifestyle modifications that may alleviate some symptoms. Staying well-hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding irritants (such as harsh soaps or tight clothing) can be helpful. Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques or physical activity may also contribute positively to your overall well-being.
8. Psychological Impact: Chronic pain and discomfort can take a toll on mental health. If you find that your symptoms are causing significant anxiety or distress, discussing these feelings with a healthcare provider or mental health professional may be beneficial.
In conclusion, while your symptoms may not necessarily indicate a severe underlying condition, they warrant further investigation to determine the root cause and appropriate treatment. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about all your symptoms and concerns to ensure a comprehensive approach to your health.
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