X-rays are a marvelous medical tool that have made possible tremendous advances in medical and dental care. With x-rays, doctors can pinpoint things like bone fractures or lumps, which can guide them in diagnosing problems and suggesting treatments. But do x-rays present any penis health issues? For example, can exposure to x-rays cause a burned red penis or some other form of penile issue?
X-rays are all around
First, it’s important to understand something about x-rays. For example, x-rays were not created for the x-ray machine. Instead, x-rays can occur naturally in nature, as well as be created through scientific means; the creators and refiners of the modern x-ray machine took the x-rays and focused their energy in such a way as to take advantage of its penetrative powers to enable scientists to see through surfaces such as skin or rock.
X-rays have been known to create a skin condition known as radiodermatitis, which is where the question of x-rays creating a red penis skin situation originates. Radiodermatitis occurs when a person or a part of a person is exposed to large doses of x-rays. It’s generally associated with high doses of x-rays received at one time, but there is some question as to whether a person could get radiodermatitis from repeated exposure to lower doses, especially if the exposures were close together in time.
A red penis?
So, the short answer is that yes, radiodermatitis could bring about a red penis in a man. However, it is unlikely that this will happen. For one thing, doctors tend to be very careful about the potential harm that can be done by x-rays and will err on the side of caution. For that reason, if x-rays are being taken which do not NEED to include the penis but which might end up exposing the penis to x-rays, a lead shield will usually be placed over the organ.
In some cases, doctors need to get an x-ray of the penis itself; for example, when pinpointing the cause of erectile dysfunction, a dye may be inserted into the penis and then x-rayed to determine possible factors leading to the dysfunction. However, it is unlikely but not impossible that a man might get enough exposure to contract a red penis.
Other x-rays
It’s all well and good that doctors and medical technicians take pains to protect the penis from x-rays, but what about x-ray exposure outside the medical setting?
First, except in areas where there has been significant nuclear activity (which should have barriers preventing humans from entering), the basic level of x-rays is not high enough to cause radiodermatitis. Many people have expressed concern about x-rays from airport security full-body scanners, especially when combined with the x-rays generated by nearby machines to check baggage. However, the x-rays from these machines is considered safe and unlikely to reate issues; however, men who are concerned can request a physical examination rather than go through the body scanners.
Some people worry about x-rays from other devices, such as microwaves, cell phones, computers, etc. However, the radiation created by these devices is not the same as x-rays.
It is rare for a man to get a red penis from x-rays, but if he does, he should contact his physician right away so that treatment can be recommended.
Healthy penis skin may be better able to resist red penis damage from x-rays, so men should be sure to regularly use a superior penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Moisture is key for good penis skin health, so be sure to select a crème that includes both a high end emollient (such as shea butter) and a natural emollient. A crème with a potent antioxidant like alpha lipoic acid is also recommended, as this can help to fight the oxidative stress that can weaken sensitive skin.
