An itchy penis on the tip, head or shaft can be accompanied by red bumps or dryness. The most common causes for this condition include STDs, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis on the penile skin, poor hygiene, scabies, herpes, thrush or Candida infection as well as contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction stemming from the use of condoms after sex.
Why is my penis itchy? (Causes)
As explained above, itching on the penis may be caused by a number of reasons, some of which are infectious, non-infectious, while others are related to the hygiene techniques practiced by the man.
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Although there exist over a hundred reasons that can cause you to have an itchy penis, the most worrisome are those pertaining to sexually transmitted infections. Some of the causes include:
1. Dry skin on penis head and shaft
Dry skin on the penis head and shaft is a condition that can affect men of different ages. Normally, it is the head and the shaft that happen to be dry, although the scrotum can also be dry and itchy.
Apart from the penis shaft being very dry and itchy, you can experience weeping, as well as cracking. When this happens, you may find that your penis is painful to your touch, and may feel burning or hot.
You could also experience additional problems that may include sores, colored discharge, unpleasant odors, as well as the presence of blisters along the shaft.
2. STD and itching penis and groin area
An itchy penis has been known to not only be awkward, but it can also be very embarrassing for the affected person. Additionally, it may cause difficulty with daily activities, urination, as well as sexual relations.
Apart from the need to itch and scratch your private parts, a penile itch could be accompanied by general symptoms such as pain, headaches, sore throat, and fatigue.
There are a number of sexually transmitted diseases that have been known to cause a penile itch. The common STDs include genital warts, scabies, Chlamydia, herpes, and pubic lice.
3. Eczema and psoriasis on penis shaft
Genital psoriasis does not come with the same symptoms that are associated with psoriasis occurring on other parts of the body.
When it occurs in other areas, it appears in the form of bright, red, skin patches, which do not have any scales at the top.
Genital psoriasis can affect individuals of all ages, including small babies. When it appears on the penis in men, it often consists of small reddish patches that are found at the tip of the penis, and at times on the shaft as well.
The skin that is affected will appear shiny, and no scaled will be present. The condition affects both circumcised and uncircumcised men.
4. Allergies
Any man who has allergies, be it to insect bites, nuts, or even plant materials is always at risk of getting an allergic reaction, which may lead to him getting an itchy penis, and swelling.
The two combined will lead to a world of misery and pain. For such a man, avoiding these substances altogether is the first line of defense, even though it may not always be possible for the man to achieve this fete.
When you have an allergic reaction, there are a few penis tips that you can use to help soothe your pain. Additionally, when you are aware of the common culprits, you can be able to avoid them whenever possible.
5. Fungal infections (jock itch)
Jock itch is the information name that is given to tinea cruris, a fungal infection known to affect the area around the genitals.
- The rash is common in the areas surrounding the groin, as it likes environments that are dark, moist, and very warm.
When it occurs, it is often accompanied by itchiness, which can be very annoying, and embarrassing, especially when a person is in public.
6. Itchy rash on penis
If you are experiencing an itchy penis, there is a probability that you might be at risk of an STD or an STI. For many men, it is a sensation that they are well versed with.
Men, who have experienced itchiness in their penises, often describe experiencing tingling or partial numbness. The feeling has been described as being similar to having needles or pins across your skin surface.
The sensation has been described as being a tingling or burning sensation, which can be quite uncomfortable, and may bring with it some difficulties when engaging in daily activities, urination, or when having sexual relations.
Apart from having an itchy penis, the experience may be accompanied by pain, blood-colored urine, as well as blisters. Scarring, peeling, and swelling may also be present
Red itchy bumps on penis
One of the conditions known to cause red itchy bumps on the penis is Candidiasis. Commonly known as yeast, Candida exists in the body naturally, but it can begin growing to large amounts when certain conditions are present. Some of the conditions that may lead to its growth include:
- Chemotherapy
- Poor hygiene practices in the genital region
- After taking a long course of antibiotics
- Retention of moisture around the groin area
When the above conditions are present, you will find that this fungus may begin to grow beyond tolerable levels. After it has started growing, you may notice symptoms such as:
- An itchy penis
- Red bumps on the affected surface
- A visible discharge
- Collected discharge below the foreskin in uncircumcised men
To take care of this condition, you will need to apply antifungal creams topically.
Itchy tip and head of the penis
Itchy tip and head of the penis is often caused by a condition known as Balanitis. Balanitis is the term used to refer to the inflammation of the penis head.
Poor aeration combined with irritation caused by discharge and smegma that surrounds the glans penis is what causes the inflammation. The condition is commonly found among men who are not circumcised.
It comes about due to poor hygiene practices. Inflammation may be as a result of using harsh soaps, failure to rinse yourself properly after washing, or because of an infection.
Candida albicans is a common organism that is associated with this condition. Candida albicans is a yeast infection, which if allowed to grow excessively may lead to balanitis. The yeast thrives in areas that are warm and moist, such as the foreskin.
Itching after sex
If you experience an itchy penis after sex, there could be a few reasons behind this development, such as:
1. Fungal infections
If you encounter itching and redness right after having sex, and the symptoms disappear after two days, it may mean that your partner has a fungal infection.
The itchiness on your penis could have been caused by an allergic reaction to the fungal infection that is present in your partner’s vagina. The solution will be to ensure that you and your partner seek proper treatment
2. Condoms and Spermicides
Using condoms and spermicides when engaging in sexual relations may lead to contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is associated with an itchy and reddish looking penis.
3. Trichomoniasis
It is regarded as one of the most commonly transmitted STD. Even though the condition is curable, a man with this condition will experience irritation and itching inside their penis.
Additionally, the man may also experience a burning sensation after ejaculating or when urinating. A discharge may also be present at the tip of the penis. In many cases, seventy percent of the individuals who have this condition do not show any symptoms.
4. Molluscum contagiosum
It is a term used to refer to skin colored bumps that appear on the penis shaft, and which can be transmitted sexually.
On transmission, they lead to an itchy penis accompanied by a lot of irritation.
5. Genital Herpes
If you notice a group of blisters filled with fluids, and which are accompanied by itchiness and burning, you probably have genital herpes.
Herpes is brought about by the herpes simplex virus I & II and is transmitted through sexual contact. The condition is associated with itching, as well as a burning sensation.
6. Scabies
Another condition can cause a severe case of an itchy penis, buttocks, and scrotum. Itching becomes severe during nighttime.
It can also affect other areas such as the finger web spaces, umbilicus, and the armpits. You may also notice a few itchy bumps on your scrotum and penis.
The condition is easily transmitted between family members, hence the need to ensure that the whole family has been treated.
Treatments and home remedies
A number of factors can cause an itchy penis, and even though the condition cannot be transmitted, it is annoying, uncomfortable, and highly embarrassing, especially when you feel the urge to scratch while in a public place.
Fortunately, there exist certain home remedies that you can rely on to experience relief from the itchiness. It is important to note that these remedies should at no point be considered as substitutes for standard medication, especially where one suspects that the itchiness has been caused by a sexually transmitted disease.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that can be used to treat and relieve itchiness on the penis. It contains deep stimulating and skin cleansing elements, as well as potent antibacterial qualities
In addition to relieving itchiness, it will also help in reducing inflammation.
What to do at home
- You will need to use cotton swabs to apply this oil to your affected penis at least two times each day. You should continue applying the oil until you notice all the symptoms disappear. People with sensitive skin may experience a burning sensation. When this happens, they should consider combining four drops of this oil with a single teaspoon of coconut oil before use.
- Alternatively, you can add four drops of tea tree oil to your bathing water. You will then need to soak the lower part of your body into the water for the next fifteen minutes
- Another option is to acquire shower gels or soaps containing this essential oil and then use them to wash your penile member.
Apple cider vinegar
Using apple cider vinegar to wash your itching penis is another way to get rid of the itchiness completely.
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that contains antifungal and antibacterial properties, which you can use to cure and control different types of skin conditions. Here’s how to relieve an itchy penis with apple cider vinegar.
- Warm two cups of water and combine them with two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
- You should use this solution to wash the infected area, and then allow the solution to dry out before wearing your clothes
- Apply the apple cider vinegar solution two times each day, and focus on the period before heading to bed
Rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can help relieve itchiness on your penis, as it is known to kill all the fungus that may be causing the itchy sensation.
Rubbing alcohol is a drying agent, and it will ensure that your groin area remains dry. You need to remember that fungi survive best in areas that are warm and moist.
What to do at home
- Obtain ninety percent isopropyl rubbing alcohol
- Dip a cotton swab into the solution and apply it gently over the affected penis area.
- With rubbing alcohol, there is no need for you to wash it off as it evaporates very quickly
- Ensure you repeat application a few times a day until you notice a change
Listerine
Although used in cleaning the mouth, Listerine also happens to be a great remedy for treating itching penile members, as well as conditions such as athletes foot.
This is possible because it contains antibacterial antiseptic and antifungal properties.
What to do at home
- You will need a cotton ball for use in applying the amber Listerine all over the affected penile region.
- The Listerine should be left on your penile member until it becomes completely dry. Initially, it may hurt on the application, but this should go away within a few minutes paving way for relief from inflammation and soreness.
- Listerine application should be repeated three times a day until the itchiness goes away completely
Note: if you have open wounds or blisters, do not use Listerine as a home remedy
White vinegar
White vinegar is used in treating and soothing itchiness primarily because of its antiseptic and antifungal properties.
What to do at home
- Measure a single part of vinegar, and blend it with four parts of water. You should then soak a washcloth into the solution.
- The washcloth should be used to wash the penile region thoroughly. It is recommended that the solution is allowed to dry on its own. There will be no need for you to rinse your penis after applying the solution. Repeat this process three times each day
- Alternatively, you can combine equal parts of coconut oil and vinegar, and then use a swab to dab the solution all over the area that is affected. Allow this solution to remain on your penis for a few hours before washing your penis. The application should be repeated two times each day until the problem disappears completely.
Bleach
It comes with antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties, which come in handy in treating an itchy penis.
What to do at home
- Measure a quarter cup of bleach and combine it with your bathing water
- You have to ensure that you soak your penis in this water for at least fifteen minutes each day
- Use the bleach solution for as long as it takes to get rid of the itchiness
After soaking in the water, ensure that you pat your groin region dry to eliminate any moisture that could be present on it
Onion
Onion contains antibiotic and antifungal properties that make it possible for it to kill all the fungi causing the itchiness on your penile member.
What to do at home
- Find a ripe onion and chop it into small pieces. You will then need to crush the pieces to form a paste, which you should then apply on your penis. Allow this paste to remain on your penis for at least one hour before thoroughly rinsing your member with warm water. You should ensure that the entire area has been dried completely. The onion paste can be applied once each day
- Alternatively, you may consider applying onion oil or onion juice to your itchy member
- Another option will be to add onions to your daily cooking, as this will provide your whole body with microbial protection.
Salt water bath
Preparation of a salt-water bath is a great way to eliminate itchiness along the penis or groin area. When you add salt to your bathing water, it will help ensure that the fungus causing the itchiness does not continue growing.
It also ensures that your penis gets to heal at a much faster pace, which is why it is recommended for treating blisters and boils appearing in the genital area.
A salt-water bath can be prepared using table salt, Epsom salts, or using bath salts.
What to do at home
- Prepare the bath water and then add in a generous amount of your chosen salt to the water
- Soak your itching penile member into the salt water
- For best results, ensure that you repeat this process at least twice each day
Garlic
It is recommended for use in treating an itchy penile member because it contains antifungal properties. Using these properties, it is able to relieve pain as well as itchiness around your genital region.
What to do at home
- Obtain three garlic cloves and crush them completely to form a thick paste. Use your fingers to apply the garlic paste all over the itchy penile member. Allow the paste to stay on your penis for at least ten minutes before washing it off with warm water. Ensure you repeat application at least three times each day. Any man with a sensitive skin should refrain from using garlic paste on their penis.
- Alternatively, you can fry two garlic cloves using olive oil. Once fried, allow the oil to cool down before straining and applying it on your penis. The oil should be left on the penis for a few hours before being washed off using warm water. It is recommended that this particular remedy be applied twice each day
- Alternatively, consider eating raw garlic as a way of boosting your immune system, and speeding up the healing process. You should, however, note that consuming raw garlic could lead to bad breath.
- Another option is to take a garlic supplement, after consulting your GP
Honey
It contains soothing properties, which are vital for any man that has an itchy member. If looking to use honey as a home remedy, you will need to make use of Manuka honey, which comes with great antifungal properties.
It can be used to treat conditions such as ringworms, itchy penis, and nail fungus.
What to do at home
- Apply Manuka honey on the affected penis area and allow it to stay there for at least forty minutes. After forty minutes, you will need to use cold water to wash your groin area, and then use a dry towel to pat the groin area dry. Make sure you repeat application of the Manuka honey at least two times each day until your itchiness goes away
- Alternatively, you can prepare a paste using minced garlic, and two teaspoons of Manuka honey. Apply the Manuka honey paste all over your male member, and allow it to stay there for at least twenty minutes before you can wash it off. The Manuka honey paste may cause a stinging sensation on your penis, but this sensation should go away after a while, allowing you to experience relief from the inflammation, as well as the itchiness. Apply the paste once each evening, until you get complete relief from the itchy penis.
Apart from applying these remedies, there is a need to remember that personal hygiene is vital when it comes to dealing with itchy penile members.
Practicing good hygiene practices will help ensure that this itchiness does not spread to other parts of your groin such as the testicles.
References
- https://bestnaturalremedies.co/itchy-penis-treatment/
- http://buddymd.com/itchy-pinkish-red-bumps-penis
- http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Dermatology/Itchy-on-my-penis-head/show/751498
- https://www.stdtestexpress.com/itchy-penis/
- http://www.embarrassingproblems.com/problem/penis-problems/penis-red-sore-itchy
- http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/coping-with-an-itchy-penis-could-it-be-an-allergic-reaction
1 comment
I’m fat man; my penis surrounded by body fat down in hole. When its hard only stick out bout a inch out of the hole in my body fat. When I pee it stay wet for hours. My penis itchy and in my balls area I got Pain. Told my pop but it he said keep it wash it might help the itch go away. If pain don’t go away soon; have go too Doctor. 2/20/’19