Sudden Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Solutions

Q: Sudden Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Solutions

Xiao Liu： Hello, you have inflammation of the glans. This may be caused by improper cleaning methods. The recommended cleaning methods for the glans and foreskin are as follows： 1. Clean the glans several times a day. 2. It is best to clean away any urine resi

Doctor, please help answer?

Doctor, I suddenly have three bump-like lesions on the corona of my penis that seem to have broken skin (they are red and swollen).
Last August, I had a similar situation and went to the hospital for an examination, which ruled out sexually transmitted infections.
The hospital staff mentioned that the wound resembled herpes and prescribed me some topical medication.
It healed after about a week.
However, in the past few days, a similar situation has occurred again, and I have been applying the same medication prescribed by the hospital.
I would like to know if this is viral.
Can you please explain what this situation might be? Thank you.

Xiao Liu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/03

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Xiao Liu: Hello, you have inflammation of the glans.
This may be caused by improper cleaning methods.
The recommended cleaning methods for the glans and foreskin are as follows: 1.
Clean the glans several times a day.
2.
It is best to clean away any urine residue after each urination; if that is not convenient, simply pat the area dry.
3.
Cleaning method: * use only cool, clean water Absolutely do not use soap, body wash, or any cleaning agents.
If you feel dryness, you may apply petroleum jelly, baby oil, or a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer locally.
4.
If this occurs frequently, there may be other underlying issues, and it is advisable to seek professional medical advice.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to visit a medical institution.
Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taitung Hospital, cares about you.
This response is provided by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at our hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/01/03

More Info

Understanding sudden bumps on the penis can be concerning, and it’s important to approach this issue with care and knowledge. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a recurrence of bumps that resemble acne or possibly herpes lesions. Given your previous experience with similar symptoms and the fact that you were evaluated for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) last year, it’s understandable that you would want clarity on what might be happening now.

The bumps you are describing could be caused by several factors, including:
1. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): This is a common viral infection that can cause painful blisters or sores on the genital area. The fact that you had a similar condition last year that was treated with medication suggests that this could be a recurrence of genital herpes. Herpes can remain dormant in the body and reactivate due to various triggers such as stress, illness, or a weakened immune system.

2. Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. It can present as small red bumps that may resemble pimples and can become painful or itchy.

3. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the corona of the penis. They are normal anatomical variations and are not related to any disease or infection.

4. Other Infections: Conditions such as molluscum contagiosum, warts (caused by human papillomavirus), or even bacterial infections can also lead to similar symptoms.

Given that you have already been evaluated for STIs and received treatment in the past, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They may perform a physical examination and possibly take a swab of the lesions to determine if there is an active viral infection or another underlying cause.

In terms of management, if this is indeed a recurrence of herpes, antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir can be very effective in reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks. If the bumps are due to folliculitis or another benign condition, your doctor may recommend topical treatments or other interventions.

In the meantime, here are some general tips to manage your symptoms:
- Avoid Irritation: Wear loose-fitting underwear and avoid tight clothing to minimize friction and irritation in the affected area.

- Keep the Area Clean: Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, and avoid using harsh products that could exacerbate irritation.

- Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have a clear diagnosis, it’s advisable to refrain from sexual activity to prevent potential transmission of any infectious agents and to avoid further irritation.

In conclusion, while it’s possible that the bumps you are experiencing are related to a viral infection like herpes, there are several other potential causes. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

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