An itchy penis is one of the more private health concerns a man can have. But when is it cause for public concern – that is, when is the source of the itch contagious? Often, an itchy penis is a sign of improper hygiene and is the sole concern of the man affected. However, certain causes of penile itch can be spread either through skin-to-skin contact or through contact with clothing, towels and so on. Proper penis health, as well as responsible conduct in public and with partners, requires that a man get his condition diagnosed. In the meantime, below are two causes of itch that can be spread to others if measures are not taken to contain the problem.
Yeast Infection
Men can get yeast infections? Yes! Though this problem is more common in women, it is possible for men to get them, too. Men usually contract yeast infections, also known as thrush, from infected women, although men with diabetes may develop them on their own, as their medical condition encourages the overgrowth of yeast. Thrush occurs when the Candida yeast in the body multiplies excessively.
What symptoms indicate a yeast infection in men?
– Red penis rash
– Itching or burning on the tip of the penis
These are also symptoms of other health conditions, including sexually transmitted infections. That’s why it’s so important for men to seek diagnosis from a trained medical professional.
Treating a yeast infection is relatively simple. Antifungal creams, either over the counter or prescribed, are usually sufficient to nix the infection and restore balance to Candida yeast levels. Note: A man’s sexual partner(s) should also be tested and, if positive, treated for a yeast infection, lest they continue to pass it back and forth.
Jock Itch
Primarily a problem for active men who sweat a lot, jock itch occurs when the tinea cruris fungus sets up shop in a man’s groin area. This fungus loves moist, warm places; the groin folds are most hospitable to it, and men who spend plenty of time at the gym or engaged in sports are especially susceptible.
Symptoms of jock itch include:
– A distinctive rash that expands from a central point and has sharply defined edges
– The rash consists of red bumps that can be scaly; they may also leak fluid
– Moderate to severe itch
As with yeast infections, men shouldn’t self-diagnose. They should just know that, if they manifest with these symptoms, they need to be careful not to spread the potentially contagious source. The tinea cruris fungus loves to travel; it will hang out on a man’s clothing, towels and anything else that has come into contact with his equipment; if another man makes contact with these items, he will likely develop a case of jock itch himself.
Along with thoroughly washing all his clothing and other items that contact his penis, a man with jock itch should take care to keep his groin as clean and dry as possible. An antifungal cream can be purchased over the counter to usher out the fungus and get rid of the rash.
Fend off Dryness
A generally non-contagious problem that causes penile itching is simple dryness. Rough, vigorous play, either with the hand or a partner’s body, can leave skin raw, flaky and sore – not to mention itchy. Regular use of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) can be helpful in this area. Natural hydrating ingredients like vitamin E and Shea butter help keep the skin moisturized and, therefore, itch-free. Also look for vitamin A on the ingredient list – this nutrient can inhibit bacteria that cause odors.
