Penile Pain: Is It Caused by Urethritis?

Can urethritis cause penile pain?

Hello, I am the person who previously asked about having penile pain for over a month.
Yesterday, I went for a follow-up appointment and explained my situation to the doctor again.
I also proactively asked him if there was a possibility of injury to the corpus cavernosum and whether I could undergo more advanced examinations (such as X-rays or ultrasounds).
However, he said that if the corpus cavernosum were injured, there would be visible signs externally, and since my external appearance was normal, there would be no injury to the corpus cavernosum.
He firmly believed that advanced examinations were unnecessary and that even if they were done, they would not help my condition.
He strongly believed that my penile pain was caused by a bacterial infection in the urethra, as I had mentioned during my last visit that I had been experiencing some burning pain while urinating.
He ordered a urine test, and the report came back indicating inflammation in the urethra, which was causing the pain in my entire penis.
He prescribed a medication called Suprax for me to take for 7 days and said that I did not need to return for another appointment.
It seems that the doctor is very confident that once I complete this 7-day course of medication, both the urethritis and the penile pain will be resolved.
While I hope his assessment is correct, I would still like to ask for your opinion, Dr.
Hsu.
Thank you.

y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/19

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, in the case of general penile corporal injury, X-rays cannot reveal the damage, and more severe injuries can only be detected through ultrasound.
If the appearance is normal, it indicates that there is no injury to the corpora cavernosa or only very minor damage, which does not require any treatment and will heal on its own.
As for urethritis, using cefixime is quite appropriate, and a 7-day course is sufficient.

Regarding the treatment and care for urethritis, I would recommend drinking cranberry juice, about 500 mL daily for 14 days, as it can help accelerate the healing process.
Note: If a definitive diagnosis of corporal injury is necessary, the most accurate method is to perform cavernosography, which involves injecting a contrast agent into the corpora cavernosa and then taking images to detect minor tears.
However, this procedure is rarely used in clinical practice due to discomfort and limited therapeutic benefit; it is primarily for precise diagnosis.
If there are any concerns, you can visit a nearby medical facility for relevant tests or further treatment.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/08/19

More Info

Penile pain can indeed be caused by urethritis, which is an inflammation of the urethra often due to bacterial infections. Your recent experience, where you reported a burning sensation during urination and subsequent findings of inflammation in your urine, aligns with this diagnosis. Urethritis can stem from various pathogens, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, as well as non-STI bacteria.
Your physician's confidence in diagnosing your condition based on your symptoms and urine analysis is not uncommon in clinical practice. The presence of inflammatory markers in your urine suggests that there is indeed an infection that needs to be treated. The antibiotic prescribed, which you referred to as "速博" (likely a brand name for an antibiotic), is typically effective against common pathogens associated with urethritis. Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial, as it helps ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance.

It's important to note that while the external examination of the penis may not show any visible signs of injury or trauma, this does not entirely rule out internal issues, such as injury to the corpus cavernosum (the erectile tissue). However, as your doctor mentioned, significant injuries would often present with visible signs or symptoms, such as swelling, bruising, or deformity. If your pain persists even after completing the antibiotic course, or if you develop new symptoms such as swelling, discharge, or fever, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.

In terms of the healing process, the urethra is a resilient structure, and with appropriate treatment, it typically heals well. If there was any trauma to the urethra, it usually resolves with time and proper care. However, if you notice persistent symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or changes in urination after treatment, further diagnostic imaging (like an ultrasound) may be warranted to rule out any underlying issues that were not initially apparent.

Additionally, it's essential to consider other factors that could contribute to penile pain, such as pelvic floor dysfunction, muscle tension, or even psychological factors. These can sometimes manifest as pain in the genital area and may require a multidisciplinary approach for management, including physical therapy or counseling.

In summary, your physician's assessment that your penile pain is likely due to urethritis is reasonable based on your symptoms and urine analysis. Following the prescribed treatment is crucial, and monitoring your symptoms will help determine if further evaluation is necessary. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and it is essential to address any ongoing concerns with your healthcare provider.

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