Doing a self-check for potential penis issues is always a good idea. Often in the process of inspecting himself, a man will discover he has some penis bumps which weren’t there previously. They may be due to a rash or to some other rather simple penis health issue. But in some cases, penis bumps might be a clue that a staph infection is present, and that is something that requires a doctor’s attention.
Staph infection
It’s kind of a funny name, so just what is a staph infection? To start with, the “staph” part is short for staphylococcus aureus, a kind of bacteria. If the bacteria gets into the skin (usually through a cut or scrape), it can cause an infection.
If it occurs in the groin, it may present as a rash or swelling; it may also present as penis bumps or bumps on the balls, often resembling little pimples. In some cases, the bumps start as ingrown pubic hairs.
Staph can be annoying, but if it gets under the skin and into the bloodstream, it can become dangerous. In some cases, a simple staph infection spreads and becomes a urinary tract infection, pneumonia, meningitis or sepsis. The presence of infection can be especially dangerous if the form of bacteria is that known as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. This bacteria is much harder to kill and can cause severe damage or even death. Fortunately, MRSA is much rarer than regular staph infections.
When the staph infection gets underneath the penis skin, it can sometimes cause extensive swelling (and not the kind a man expects when the penis is in a sexual state of excitement).
Treatment
Antibiotics (most often penicillin) are typically used to treat a case of staph infection. However, cases involving MRSA may prove much more difficult to treat with this option. In some cases, it may be necessary to surgically remove infected areas, although this is a rare course of action.
Prevention
As noted, bacteria cause staph infection, so the most important way to prevent this condition is to pay close attention to basic hygiene. Washing regularly is essential, as is wearing clean clothing (especially underwear and pants, where staph infection of the penis is concerned). In the summer, when men tend to sweat more, it may be a good idea to “air out” the penis regularly, perhaps by sleeping unclothed.
Direct contact with an infected area can also cause the bacteria to spread, so it’s wise to avoid skin-to-skin contact with a partner’s infection. Also, be advised that the bacteria can be spread through other means, such as using the towel or razor of an infected person, wearing an infected person’s clothing, etc.
Keep an eye out for penis bumps or ingrown hairs, especially if they are accompanied by abnormal swelling. For men who manscape, take care to avoid cuts, which provide a direct pathway for bacteria to get into the skin.
Again, a guy who suspects a staph infection in his penis should see a doctor right away. Dead tissue can develop relatively quickly if the infection is left untreated.
Penis bumps are not always the result of a staph infection, of course, and may simply indicate dry or damaged penis skin. Regular application of a superior penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) can keep that skin healthier or more resistant to damage. Be sure to select a crème that includes vitamin A among its ingredients. Also known as retinol, vitamin A is a natural antibacterial agent, so it can help fight many types of bacteria that cause skin irritation. The crème should also include Shea butter and vitamin E, a potent combination of moisturizers that can repair dry penis skin and provide a moisture lock to keep the skin better hydrated.
