Concerns About Possible Penile Necrosis or Gangrene
I'm a 22-year-old male with a lengthy history of excessive masturbation, often engaging in the practice 10 to 20 times daily for the past 11 years and frequently in unconventional positions, such as being upside-down. In February, I began to notice a curve in my penis along with a potential lump, leading me to suspect I might be experiencing early signs of Peyronie's disease, although my doctors dismissed this possibility. Recently, after masturbating, I experienced sudden swelling on one side of my penis. A few days later, I dealt with severe itching, which subsided after I applied Candid cream. However, the next morning, I discovered a small lesion near the urethral opening; it appeared moist and emitted a white fluid. Then last night, right after masturbating, I observed that the right side of the glans had turned a deep red-brown and displayed an unusual texture, which was not present prior. Today, I consulted with a dermatologist who suggested that both the lesion and the discoloration might be a fixed drug eruption (FDE) resulting from medications I took for a fever and cold. Yet, I believe the discoloration is more likely caused by friction or trauma, as it manifested immediately after the act. The doctor prescribed me Fusibact cream, prednisolone, pantoprazole, and Hicope. I'm feeling quite anxious—what if it develops into a more serious condition like venous necrosis or even gangrene? Is this something I should worry about significantly?
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 2:40:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a lot of discomfort and anxiety regarding the changes occurring in your genital area, particularly after a long history of frequent masturbation. The combination of swelling, discoloration, itching, and lesions can understandably raise concerns about serious conditions. Let's break this down step-by-step.
Main Points:
- Potential Causes of Symptoms: Your symptoms can be attributed to friction, irritation, or possibly a skin infection, given the moisture and discoloration observed.
- Risk of Serious Conditions: While your concerns about necrosis or gangrene are understandable, these conditions are generally associated with more severe trauma, infections, or underlying circulatory issues—most commonly not encountered in cases like yours.
- Management and Next Steps: Focus on self-care measures and closely monitor changes while following your doctor's treatment plan.
Explanation:
- Friction and Trauma: Engaging in excessive masturbation, especially in unconventional positions, can lead to trauma to the skin, which may explain the swelling and discoloration. It's important to allow the area to heal properly.
- Lesions and Itching: The moist lesion near the urethral opening may be due to friction, irritation, or an infection. The fact that applying Candid cream helped suggests a possible yeast or fungal component.
- Discoloration: The red-brown discoloration right after masturbation likely stems from the trauma or irritation and may not signify a severe underlying issue.
Next Steps:
- Follow Treatment Regimen: Continue using the prescribed medications (Fusibact cream, prednisolone, pantoprazole, and Hicope) as directed by your dermatologist. These should help with inflammation and irritation.
- Practice Gentler Techniques: Consider reducing the frequency of masturbation and avoid any positions or techniques that cause discomfort or friction. Allow time for healing before resuming your regular practices.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms over the next week. If you notice increasing pain, significant swelling, increasing redness, or any discharge that does not improve, seek medical attention promptly.
- Engage in Self-Care: Maintain good hygiene and consider using a soothing, non-irritating moisturizer on the area to minimize further irritation. Avoid any harsh soaps or products.
Reassurance:
While it's natural to feel anxious about changes in your body, the symptoms you're experiencing are very often manageable and reversible with the appropriate care. Always prioritize your comfort, and don't hesitate to reach out for additional support if your symptoms worsen or you feel concerned. You have the right to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being fully addressed.
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