Penile Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Penile Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention

Kevin： Hello, it is difficult to determine the cause of the illness. <br>If you are unsure whether it is normal, it is advisable to seek medical attention. <br>If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further. <br>Answers from the i

Penile pain

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I usually engage in sexual activity about twice a week, and everything has been normal.
However, after a sexual encounter on January 2nd of this year, I noticed the next day that I had significant difficulty achieving an erection.
I feel pain during the process of engorgement, and it hurts a bit when I exert myself, although it's not extremely painful.
It feels more like weakness; even if I manage to get an erection, it quickly reverts to a flaccid state once stimulation stops.
There is no pain when flaccid, but my penis seems to be thinner than usual (though firmer), rather than the usual soft state.
I also haven't had much sexual desire over the past two weeks.
Should I expect these symptoms to resolve on their own, or should I seek medical attention immediately?

kevin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/16

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Kevin: Hello, it is difficult to determine the cause of the illness.
If you are unsure whether it is normal, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers from the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to visit a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2016/01/16

More Info

Penile pain and erectile difficulties can be concerning symptoms that warrant medical attention, especially when they persist or are accompanied by other changes in sexual function. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of erectile dysfunction (ED) and penile pain, which can be caused by a variety of factors.

First, it’s important to understand that erectile dysfunction can occur for many reasons, including psychological factors (such as stress or anxiety), physical factors (such as vascular issues, hormonal imbalances, or nerve damage), or a combination of both. The pain you are experiencing during erections could be indicative of several underlying conditions, including Peyronie's disease (which involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis), penile trauma, or even infections.

Given that you mentioned the pain is not severe but is accompanied by a noticeable change in the firmness and size of your penis during erections, this could suggest that there is some form of physical change occurring. The fact that you are also experiencing a decrease in sexual desire is another important symptom to consider. Changes in libido can be influenced by both physical and psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, or hormonal changes.

In terms of whether this condition will resolve on its own, it is difficult to predict without a proper medical evaluation. Some cases of erectile dysfunction can improve with time, especially if they are related to temporary psychological stressors. However, if the symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly imaging studies to assess blood flow to the penis.

It is also worth noting that if you experience any additional symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or discharge, or if the pain worsens, you should seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

In summary, while some cases of erectile dysfunction and penile pain may resolve on their own, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice that the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications, therapy, or lifestyle changes to help improve your sexual health and overall well-being. Remember, seeking help is a positive step towards addressing your concerns and improving your quality of life.

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