Almost all men encounter minor penis conditions from time to time that cause symptoms such as dryness, itching, redness, soreness, and unpleasant odors. These common penis problems, while uncomfortable, are generally not a cause for much concern. Most penis issues can be easily resolved at home using a moisturizer or penis health crème containing natural vitamins and moisturizers (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). Penis problems that are painful, do not clear up on their own after a few days, or are accompanied by a headache, fever, swelling or discharge may be a sign of a more serious condition and should be treated by a medical professional. Men who may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease should abstain from sex (including oral contact) until they have been examined by a doctor. Some of the most common penis health problems that men encounter are described below.

Bacterial Infection

The surface of the skin is covered with microscopic organisms that are generally harmless and even sometimes beneficial. However, some of these bacteria may cause problems when they are allowed to penetrate the outer dermal layer to the tissue below. Rough sex, masturbation, latex condoms, and even clothing can irritate the skin and cause tiny cracks to develop, allowing bacteria to penetrate the deeper layers and cause infection.

Symptoms

Signs of a bacterial infection include redness, mild swelling, rash, and discomfort.

Treatment

While infections that are well-established may require prescription medication, the best way to treat this problem is to avoid it in the first place; keeping the area clean and using a daily moisturizer can prevent bacterial infections and leave the surface of the penis smooth and supple.

Male Yeast Infection

Like female yeast infection, the male version is caused by the Candida fungus, which is commonly present on the skin. While this organism is dormant under normal conditions, certain imbalances in the body can cause the fungus to flourish, leading to some uncomfortable symptoms. Yeast infection can be passed back and forth between sexual partners, so it is important that if one member of a couple develops symptoms, both are treated.

Symptoms

In men, signs of yeast infection include redness (especially at the tip of the penis), itching, flaking of the skin, and burning during urination.

Treatment

When treated right away, yeast infection usually disappears quickly, in a matter of a few days. Men as well as women can use topical over-the-counter yeast infection remedies for treating this uncomfortable condition.

Phimosis

This penis condition is diagnosed when the foreskin tightens so that it cannot retract over the glans (head) of the penis. While this problem is common in infants, it can also occur in adults.

Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of phimosis is the inability of the foreskin to retract, which can lead to discomfort or pain during masturbation or sex. In some cases, the foreskin may actually become stuck behind the glans if it does manage to retract.

Treatment

While many men opt for circumcision to treat this problem, others choose to pursue less-invasive treatment before resorting to surgery. Stretching the skin carefully and using a penis-specific moisturizer may help to loosen the foreskin and help it to retract easily.

Dry, Irritated Skin

Most men experience dry and irritated skin from time to time, whether as a result of an infection or simply rough handling. As noted above in the section on bacterial infections, aggressive sex, masturbation, and skin sensitivities can all lead to drying and discomfort. Psoriasis, which causes itching, redness and flaking, can also contribute to penis irritation.

Symptoms

Signs of irritated skin include a dry, wrinkled appearance, redness, and flaking.

Treatment

Treating dry and irritated penis skin can be as easy as maintaining good hygiene, wearing clean, cotton underwear, and using a moisturizer on a regular basis.

Keeping Your Penis Healthy

The best way to prevent penis problems is to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding the use of tobacco products; it is also important to choose sexual partners with care. In addition, it is suggested that a penis health crème, (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing penis-specific vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients be used daily to moisturize the skin and protect the penis from bacterial or fungal infections and environmental contaminants that may lead to more serious penis health issues.