Pain at the Tip of the Penis: Causes and When to See a Doctor - Urology

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I have pain at the tip of my penis and I'm not sure why?


Hello, my question is that for the past couple of days, I have noticed pain at the tip of my penis, specifically the glans.
I haven't engaged in masturbation recently, and urination is not painful (so it shouldn't be a urinary tract infection).
The pain is only at the tip; touching it causes significant discomfort, while the shaft does not hurt at all.
There are no visible injuries, which is quite strange.
What are your thoughts on this, or should I go see a doctor directly? Thank you.

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/23

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, you may have kidney stones or a kidney infection.
Due to nerve connections, kidney stones can cause pain near the glans.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask, and we can discuss and research together.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at 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 health.

Reply Date: 2016/01/23

More Info


Understanding pain at the tip of the penis, particularly in the glans (the head of the penis), can be concerning and may arise from various causes. Given your description, it seems that the pain is localized to the glans, without any associated symptoms like pain during urination or any visible external injuries. Here are some potential causes and considerations regarding your situation:
1. Irritation or Inflammation: One common cause of pain in the glans is irritation or inflammation, which can be due to various factors such as friction from clothing, excessive moisture, or even hygiene products like soaps or lotions that may cause sensitivity. If you have recently changed any personal care products, consider reverting to your previous ones to see if the pain subsides.

2. Infections: While you mentioned that you do not experience pain during urination, it is still possible to have a localized infection, such as a yeast infection or balanitis (inflammation of the glans). Balanitis can occur due to poor hygiene, particularly in uncircumcised men, or as a reaction to irritants. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and sometimes a discharge.

3. Peyronie's Disease: Although less common, Peyronie's disease can cause localized pain due to the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis. This condition often presents with curvature during erections, but it can also cause pain in the glans.

4. Nerve Irritation: Sometimes, nerve irritation or entrapment can lead to localized pain. This can happen due to prolonged pressure or certain positions during sleep or sitting.

5. Dermatological Conditions: Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or lichen sclerosus can also affect the glans and cause pain or discomfort. These conditions may require specific treatments to manage the symptoms effectively.

6. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including pain in sensitive areas. If you are experiencing heightened stress or anxiety, this could be a contributing factor.

Given that the pain is localized and you have not experienced other symptoms like discharge, fever, or systemic illness, it may not be an emergency. However, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If the pain persists, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms (such as swelling, discharge, or fever), it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.


When to See a Doctor:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain does not improve within a few days or worsens.

- Additional Symptoms: If you experience swelling, redness, discharge, or fever.

- Concerns About Infection: If you suspect an infection or if there are changes in your urinary habits.

- Psychological Impact: If the pain is causing significant distress or anxiety.


Conclusion:
In summary, while there are several potential causes for the pain at the tip of your penis, many of them can be addressed effectively with proper medical evaluation and treatment. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially those involving sensitive areas. If you feel uncertain or if the pain continues, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist, who can perform a thorough examination and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options.

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