Glans Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice

Glans pain issue?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
Since last Sunday, I've been experiencing pain on my glans due to friction from my underwear, and sometimes I feel pain in my foreskin or glans.
I visited a doctor on Friday, and after a physical examination, the doctor said it was nerve pain and asked if I had engaged in oral sex.
The doctor mentioned that this condition could be related to herpes infection.
I informed the doctor that I have not had any sexual activity, as my skin appears normal without any breaks or blisters, and no medication was prescribed.
The doctor advised me to monitor the situation at home.
Dr.
Hsu, could this possibly be caused by changes in climate or a weakened immune system?

dada, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/04/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, it's difficult to make a judgment.
However, if a clinician diagnoses the pain as neuropathy caused by herpes, it should not be a major concern.
As long as the body's immune system strengthens, it will naturally heal.
Currently, there is no medication that can cure it.
It may be due to a lack of exercise causing autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
I recommend local heat therapy combined with regular exercise.
Note: If there are blisters or broken skin, you can purchase a topical ointment specifically for herpes.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/04/24

More Info

Understanding glans pain can be complex, as it can arise from various causes, including physical irritation, infections, or even psychological factors. In your case, the pain you are experiencing in the glans (the head of the penis) after friction from your underwear is likely due to mechanical irritation. This type of pain can occur when the skin is subjected to friction, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
Your doctor’s assessment that the pain is related to nerve irritation is also plausible. Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, can manifest as sharp, shooting, or burning sensations, and it can occur even without visible signs of injury. The fact that you have not engaged in sexual activity and that your skin appears normal is reassuring, as it suggests that there may not be an underlying sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other serious condition.

Regarding your question about whether climate change or a weakened immune system could contribute to your symptoms, it is indeed possible. Changes in weather, particularly colder temperatures or increased humidity, can affect skin sensitivity and may exacerbate existing conditions. For example, dry skin can become more prone to irritation, and if your immune system is compromised due to stress, illness, or other factors, it may not respond as effectively to minor irritations or infections.

Here are some common causes of glans pain:
1. Mechanical Irritation: As you mentioned, friction from clothing can cause irritation. This is often temporary and resolves with avoidance of the irritant.

2. Infections: While your doctor ruled out herpes, other infections such as yeast infections or bacterial infections can cause pain and discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be warranted.

3. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can occur due to poor hygiene, irritants, or infections.
4. Nerve Pain: As your doctor suggested, nerve-related pain can occur without any visible signs of damage. This type of pain can be challenging to treat and may require specific medications.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including pain.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
- If the pain persists for more than a few days without improvement.

- If you notice any changes in the skin, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.

- If you develop additional symptoms, such as fever or systemic signs of infection.

- If you experience significant discomfort that affects your daily activities.

In summary, while your current symptoms may be attributed to mechanical irritation or nerve pain, it is essential to monitor your condition. If the pain does not improve or if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and a healthcare provider can offer tailored recommendations based on your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Managing Glans Pain: Causes and Treatments

Hello Doctor, I have had phimosis since high school, which led to balanitis, and I underwent a circumcision. It did improve for about a year, but starting in mid-July this summer, I began experiencing pain in my glans (it feels like being pricked). There are no foreign bodies or ...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, I cannot make a judgment. Generally, for cleaning the glans, it is not recommended to use hot water or any cleaning products such as soap or body wash. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further. Answers found online sh...

Understanding Pain in the Glans: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello doctor, I have recently been experiencing pain on the glans of my left side when touched or when walking, as it gets rubbed by my underwear. Sometimes, I also feel a sharp pain in the area of the foreskin or urethral opening (similar to the sting of a wound coming into cont...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It sounds like neuropathic pain or a potential outbreak of shingles. Applying Mycomb Cream may not be effective. It would be advisable to observe the situation for a few more days. Make sure to drink plenty of water, aiming for a daily intake that results in approximately 1800cc ...

Understanding Glans Pain: Causes and Solutions for Urological Issues

I experience pain in the glans when touched, and I also have pain in the prostate when ejaculating only while lying down. Sometimes, I feel little sensation during masturbation. These issues have been troubling me for a long time, and I do not have phimosis.

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
It is advisable to consult a physician in person if there are any abnormalities in your body. A doctor can conduct a detailed medical history interview and physical examination, which are essential for accurate diagnosis. It is important to note that a simple description cannot d...

Understanding Pain in the Glans: Causes and Solutions

Hello doctor, I've been masturbating quite frequently lately, and I've recently noticed that when I touch the glans, it causes a sharp pain. Normally, there isn't much sensation when it's just resting, but as soon as I apply pressure, I experience this sharp p...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
Excessive sexual activity indicates a loss of balance in life, which is overall detrimental. It sounds like there may be inflammation of the glans. Make sure to rest well and maintain a healthy lifestyle.