Hello, I'm A 52 Year Old Male Have Noticed A
I'm a 52 year old male have noticed a little tingle and burn in the head of penis no redness or anything eles. not sure if i should worry?
Possible diagnosis and detailed explanations below
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,
I carefully read your query.
Tingling and burning sensation in the penile head may be caused by a number of conditions. This will depend on your risk for sexually transmitted diseases (unprotected intercourse).
In the case of a history of unprotected intercourse in the last 3 months or if you have ever had genital herpes, then very likely a sexually transmitted disease may be considered. Herpes would cause the numbness for 1-2 weeks. Most of the times it also causes blisters, but in rare cases, it does not cause skin lesions.
Other sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or gonorrhea may also cause similar symptoms.
If the numbness is present for a long time (more than a month) then you may need to do a fasting blood sugar test to rule out diabetes.
To conclude:
- if you have the numbness/burning for less than 2 weeks and do not have any other symptoms such as uncomfortable or frequent urination, secretions, skin lesions or any rash, or any penile deformity, very likely you do not need to worry but just watch how the numbness will be in the next couple of weeks
- if you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, you will need a visit and tests done (urinalysis and NAAT tests for sexually transmitted disease, ultrasound, etc)
- if the numbness is for more than a month, you will need blood tests to rule out diabetes
- herpes infection may cause burning/tingling without any rash (on rare occasions). Patients may feel these symptoms when there are outbreaks
- make sure you avoid local trauma such as cycling or similar activities. Wear cotton and wide enough underwear and also avoid tight pants. Sometimes, local trauma can be the cause of these sensations.
I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician