Understanding Penis Atrophy and Indentation Linked to Amphetamine Usage
Greetings all, I’m a 27-year-old male sharing my experience with a troubling issue. My difficulties began back in 2018 after I engaged in vigorous masturbation while under the influence of speed, leading to a permanent indentation and the appearance of a dark vein on the side of the corpus spongiosum. Since that incident, I have repeatedly experienced new indentations whenever I've used the drug and engaged in masturbation. After a series of relapses, I finally managed to quit in March of this year, but I fear I may have waited too long. At the end of April, I attempted to have sex while sober and felt minor discomfort a few times on the top right side of my penis due to lack of lubrication. I initially dismissed it, but the very next day I noticed an indentation at the same location. Since then, even the slightest pressure or friction has resulted in discomfort and more indentations. In the past two months, I've consulted several urologists. They conducted examinations and ultrasounds, but everything appeared normal. I was not advised to undergo any further screenings or tests, and I held onto hope that my issue would eventually resolve on its own. My latest urologist recommended a month-long course of tadalafil 5mg to improve blood circulation. Since I began this treatment on June 17, my pain has escalated. Just a week later, I returned to the urologist to report my worsening symptoms. In response, he prescribed me levofloxacin 500mg for 10 days (I’m currently on day 8 with no noticeable improvement), without conducting any tests. The pain has now radiated to my thighs, and I can only find comfort sleeping on my back. My penis feels perpetually tense. I also noticed an unusual discharge at work that resembled semen, which I only recognized while in the restroom. I have an appointment with another urologist on July 4, where I intend to request scanning and lab tests. I am feeling quite hopeless, as no one seems to provide answers, and I haven't found anyone online experiencing similar issues. It appears I have damaged my erectile tissue due to drug use. What would be the appropriate way to address this potential cause? My symptoms include atrophy of the penile tissue and associated pain, with no swelling, urinary issues, or burning sensations in the urethra.
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 9:10:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a particularly challenging and distressing situation with your penile health and related symptoms. The issues you've described—indentations, persistent pain, and strange discharge—suggest that there may be something more complex happening. It’s good that you’re being proactive about seeking medical attention, and I commend you for quitting amphetamines.
Key Points:
- Indentations and Pain: Your symptoms may indicate tissue damage or irritation, potentially exacerbated by drug use.
- Discharge: Unusual discharge can suggest infection or another underlying issue that needs attention.
- Next Steps: Prioritize obtaining thorough examinations and tests to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Explanation:
Penile indentations, especially following trauma or prolonged periods of drug use, can arise from various conditions such as Peyronie's disease, which involves fibrous scar tissue developing in the penis. Furthermore, the discomfort you're experiencing could stem from nerve or vascular issues linked to previous drug use, or even an inflammatory reaction. The unusual discharge raises the need for further investigation to rule out any infections or other complications.
Actionable Guidance:
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Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, severity, and any other changes or discomfort. This will be beneficial for your upcoming appointment.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: At your next urologist visit, outline all of your symptoms (including the unusual discharge) and discuss:
- The need for further imaging (like an MRI or Doppler ultrasound) to assess blood flow and tissue structure.
- Possible lab tests to rule out infections, such as urinalysis and a culture test.
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Consider Treatment Effects: Discuss the worsening symptoms since starting tadalafil and levofloxacin. It's essential to convey any side effects and the lack of improvement, as this can help your doctor adjust your treatment course.
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Lubrication: Until you can find a more definitive solution, ensure you use sufficient lubrication during any sexual activity to minimize irritation and discomfort.
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Pelvic Floor Exercises: If you are experiencing tension, pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) may help, but only if comfortable. These exercises can sometimes assist with tension and discomfort in the pelvic area.
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Seek Support: Feelings of hopelessness are understandable, and it may help to talk to a mental health professional about your experiences and feelings, especially during this period of uncertainty.
Closing Thoughts:
Although this situation is understandably distressing, pursuing the right tests and speaking openly with your healthcare providers will hopefully lead to more clarity and eventual resolution. You're taking constructive steps by scheduling appointments and addressing these symptoms, and that’s very important in managing your health. Stay resilient, and remember that you're not alone in this journey.
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