Injury to the Penile Meatus
A 36-year-old man, standing at 6'3" and weighing 175 pounds, reports no history of medications, smoking, alcohol, or drug use. He has been experiencing a tear at the opening of his urethra (meatus) for the past three weeks. The injury appears as a tear approximately half a centimeter in length located on the underside. Initially, he hoped the tear would heal on its own with proper care; however, after three weeks, there has been no improvement. The injury causes discomfort every time it rubs against his underwear or clothing, and he is concerned that it might not heal properly. He fears that it could result in a permanent fissure, leading to a heightened risk of future injuries. He seeks advice on whether a urologist could stitch the meatus, a daunting prospect, but he feels unable to return to a normal life. He is hindered from working out and is reluctant to move too much due to the pain.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 4:10:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that experiencing a tear at the opening of the urethra can be uncomfortable and concerning. Given that your meatal injury has not improved after three weeks, and is impacting your daily life, it’s important to address your concerns appropriately.
Summary of Main Points:
- The tear at your penile meatus persists after three weeks with no signs of healing.
- Pain and discomfort are affecting your daily activities and leading to worries about long-term effects.
- Seeking professional medical evaluation, particularly from a urologist, may be necessary.
Explanation:
Tears in the meatus can occur for various reasons, including friction from clothing, irritation, or trauma. In many cases, these injuries can heal on their own, but persistent tears may require medical intervention, especially if they cause ongoing pain or concern about complications. Your fears about the potential for a permanent fissure are valid, and monitoring the situation closely is essential.
Next Steps:
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Limit Irritation: Try to wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing to minimize friction against the tear. Avoid activities that may aggravate the area (like vigorous exercise) until the tear improves.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, such as increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like redness or discharge). If these occur, that would warrant faster action.
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Seek Professional Evaluation: It is advisable to consult with a urologist. They can examine the injury properly and discuss potential treatments, including if stitches are necessary. It’s understandable to feel anxious about what this may entail, but a urologist will be able to assess the injury effectively and provide you with options for healing.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help reduce discomfort, but ensure to follow the dosage guidelines.
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Consider Follow-Up Care: If you don’t see improvement in the next week or if your pain worsens, it reinforces the need to see the urologist sooner.
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about this situation, and I encourage you to take the steps needed to protect your health and well-being. Let me know if there’s anything more specific you’d like to discuss or if you have any additional questions!
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