A sore penis can be painful, ache or throb, and even show signs of swelling or inflammation. In fact, a sore penis can refer to any part of the penis, internal or external, that is causing some kind of discomfort.

Typically, the penis consists of four main parts, the bulb, which connects the penis to the abdomen, the shaft or body of the penis, the Glans or head of the penis, and the urethra, which is sometimes referred to as the urinary and seminal tract. Penis pain can develop in any one, or a number of these areas depending on what the cause of the penis pain is. Or, it may develop in the surrounding areas of the body such as the prostate, testicles, bladder or abdomen.

Sore Penis Causes
Penis pain may be a dull ache or a sharp pain that can often be accompanied by heat and inflammation, which is a sign that the body is trying to repair damage. There are more than 15 different causes of penis pain. Some may be the result of trauma or aggressive sexual activity, while others are caused by infections and other illnesses. The most common causes of penis pain are as follows:

Allergies – an allergic reaction to something that the penis has come into contact with. This can include soaps, detergents, creams, condoms, latex, fabrics and other materials;

Balanitis – an inflammation or swelling of the head (glans) of the penis;

Bladder Stones – hard mineral deposits that accumulate in the bladder;

Legions and Sores – open wounds, cuts and abrasions on the penis, which may be the result of vigorous sexual activity, aggressive sex or the fact that a sexual partner has stubble or other objects on their genitalia that may irritate or scratch the skin of the penis. Also on list of causes of open sores are STD’s.

Paraphimosis – the inability to retract the foreskin of the penis on an uncircumcised male due to tightening of the skin;

Penile Cancer – a growth, legion or sore that is malignant and can be found on the surface or within the tissue of the penis;

Penile Implants and Surgery – an implant in the penis or a surgical procedure that has been recently performed may be irritating the penis or it may have become infected;

Penis Fracture – a rupture of one or both of the cambers within the penis that enable it to become erect;

Peyronies Disease – scar tissue in the penis that results in the penis developing a curve or abnormal bend;

Pimples – an infection of skin pores or hair follicles that is the result of bacterial build-up;

Poor Hygiene – regular showering and cleansing of the penis and surrounding areas is a must, if this does not occur then the skin may become irritated or infected;

Priapism – an erection of the penis that is persistent and will not subside;

Prostatitis – an infection of the prostate gland;

Sickle Cell Anemia – a blood disease that affects the hemoglobin, or the protein in the blood that carries oxygen through the body and can restrict penile function;

STD’s and Other Infections– Chlamydia, genital herpes, scabies and crabs, thrush and other forms of infections;

Testicular Bruising – discoloration to the testicles as a result of a trauma during activity of some kind, this may occur during sports or other recreational pursuits or during sexual activity;

Urethra Damage – damage to the tube that runs from the head of the penis to the bladder or seminal duct. This can include bruising, cuts and abrasions, blockages, and other forms of trauma; and

Urethritis – a bacterial infection of the reproductive system, which may also affect the bladder and prostate in men.

Sore Penis Symptoms
The symptoms of penis pain vary, depending on the cause of the pain. However, the most common symptoms of a sore penis are as follows:

Erectile dysfunction, difficulty urinating, painful ejaculation, penis bruising, bleeding and swelling, penis lumps and sores, penis rashes and itching, and urethral discharge.

Sore Penis Treatment
If any pain is experienced from the penis or the penis is sore, it is recommended that immediate medical attention be sought as some conditions can have long-term side effects and in some cases can be life-threatening. Medical advice also reduces the risk of permanent skin damage, impairment of penis and sexual function, and possible complications that can result in major organ damage.

Treatments, for the causes listed, typically include abstaining from any sexual activity, oral and prescription medicines, crèmes, injections and other forms of therapies, as well as surgery.

In addition, it is also recommended that a penis health crème, (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil), is used to daily to decrease the damage to the sore penis and to aid in cell and skin rejuvenation. These products are also known to soothe a painful penis as they contain vital vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that keep the penis in optimal condition.

For additional information on most common penis health issues, tips on improving penis sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy penis, visit: http://www.penishealth101.com. John Dugan writes about men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.