There are so many potential reasons for an itchy penis. Most of those reasons are easily solved – for instance, itchy skin caused by a dry penis can be remedied with regular use of a penis health crème. However, if the skin is constantly dry and itchy no matter what a man does, and the usual suspects like psoriasis, eczema or an allergic reaction have been ruled out, it might pay to take a look at other medical issues that might be causing the issue. Diabetes could be one of those reasons.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes has become a serious epidemic in the United States and many other countries. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Those with type 1 diabetes can’t produce their own insulin, which is a hormone that keeps blood sugar levels under control. Type 2 is made up of those who do produce insulin, but perhaps not enough to make up for their needs. Diabetes can lead to high levels of blood sugar, which in turn leads to many physical problems.
One of the most common problems encountered with diabetes is dry skin. That’s why a dry penis might become a cause for looking deeper into the diabetes connection. But diabetes can also cause other problems for the penis skin, such as:
– Yeast infections. Though any man can wind up with a yeast infection, those who have diabetes are especially prone to it. The symptoms include swelling and redness, a white or yellowish discharge, and dry, itchy penis skin that doesn’t seem to get better with any amount of moisturizing. One yeast infection can be treated with over the counter remedies; however, recurring infections might be a sign that a man has diabetes.
– Fungal skin infections. Issues such as jock itch can become quite serious. The redness, scaly appearance and itchy penis that often accompany it might be very hard to treat with the usual over the counter remedies. Fungal skin infections that keep occurring no matter what a man does to prevent them are a sign he needs to have his blood sugar checked.
– Bacterial infections. Diabetes does quiet work behind the scenes to suppress the immune system, which means that infections are much more likely to take hold. Though this often happens with areas that are used quite often, such as the hands or the feet, infections can also take hold in the penis skin and surrounding area. A painful condition known as carbuncles can lead to swelling, itching and even pain; antibiotics are a necessary treatment.
– Circulation issues. Poor blood flow can lead to a whole host of conditions, including – but not limited to – erectile dysfunction. Diabetes can lead to issues with the circulatory system, and thus men might experience a tingling sensation in their extremities, dry skin everywhere, and even an itchy penis as a result.
– Penis rash. Men who have diabetes, especially Type 1, might experience small, hard, yellowish bumps on their skin. These bumps often have a red ring around them. Known as eruptive xanthomatosis, these bumps often occur on the hands, feet and arms, but they can show up elsewhere, such as on the dry penis skin. These bumps are quite itchy, and so can be bothersome in day-to-day life. Again, the best treatment is keeping blood sugar levels under control.
Dealing with the Dry, Itchy Penis
Diabetes is a serious condition that can sneak up on anyone, so it’s important to know the symptoms and get regular checkups that include blood sugar monitoring. For the dry, itchy penis, a man can reach for a good penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin). It’s highly beneficial whether he is suffering from diabetes or not. The crème should contain ingredients like Shea butter and vitamin E, both of which are great for keeping skin very hydrated, smooth and supple.
