4 Months of Penile Pain, Irritation, Dribbling, Rash - No STD or Diagnosis. Help!
Posted , 234 users are following.
Hello, I am seeking advice! I am 32 years of age and situation has lasted over 4 months. It started when a female at a strip club slid her hands into my pants and rubbed / grabbed my erect penis near the urinary meatus (opening). I felt a sharp pain at the time (not sure why honestly). I feel like perhaps it was due to her rubbing near the meatus. The symptoms below started almost immediately from what I can recall.
Symptoms:
1. Slight rash on the top of the penis glans (head of penis). It is worse after a hot shower. It comes and goes, and can appear almost like a plaque covering, scaly at times. It sometimes starts at the top of the corona (where head meets shaft) and runs straight down to the urinary meatus (opening) like a stripe.
2. No visible lesions (or blisters) or warts on the exterior skin surface. Does not appear to be any internally as well and doctors have not been able to observe anything.
3. Slight purple on one side of urethra, when the meatus is opened to look inside. A small bump is near the top of the purple, or tip of the meatus; however, two urologists believe it is vein related.
4. After urinating, urine dribbles out of the bottom of the meatus. The meatus opens and closes (at the bottom) and urine drops drip / discharge. I have to wipe considerably. The glans around the meatus looks swollen (more one side) and when I press on it, urine will discharge. It is almost like urine gets stuck in the tip of the urethra.
5. No noticeable discharge, but the penis appears and feels “wet” inside, especially post urination. It seems that I am leaking / dribbling throughout the day, after urinating. Urine color is clear.
6. Pain consistently on the underside of the glans near the meatus. The pain can sometimes be very sharp and burn. I also feel a tickle or tingle sensation in the head of the penis that comes and goes. The entire glans is sensitive to touch. This is extremely irritating.
7. The meatus looks red and inflamed at times. It can be very sensitive or painful to the touch and irritated by clothing. This feeling comes and goes in intensity.
8. The bottom of the meatus opens wide (top remains closed) when the penis has increased blood flow and/or is erect. This is abnormal for my body. You can see directly into the urethra when this happens.
9. When erect, the glans / head region seems larger than it had previously and I would describe it as swollen. There is also an internal pain near the underside of the meatus, where it opens up near the bottom (as described). Feels like it is stretching / pins and needles.
10. The glans has a more prominent reddish rash, during and after an erection. The rash appears like I have scaly / dry skin. Post ejaculation my urethra appears red and inflamed as well, when looking inside the meatus. This subsides after some period of time.
11. Semen color seems to be more yellow that I remembered, prior to this incident. Sometimes I feel like there is pressure on the front of my testicles.
12. The pain and irritation increase throughout the day. When I wake up in the morning the symptoms are not as noticeable, besides a dull pain on the under-side of penis glans. Sometimes there is some redness on the top of the glans area.
Testing:
I have been well tested (multiple times) and am negative for the following STD's; HIV (RNA testing done as well), Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Trich, HSV-2, Syphilis, Mycoplama & Ureaplasma, Hep A, Hep B, & Hep C. Again, all negative.
I found in this process that I am HSV-1 positive and likely have been for some period (so is a large % of the population). I have had blisters and a HSV like rash on the bottom of my nose in the past. I don’t think this is HSV-1 as there are no lesions in my genitals and this has gone on too long.
Due to viral load factors, I tested the viral infections (HIV, HSV-2, Hep) at 30 days and again at 95 days post exposure. I assume that I am in the clear based on statistics, but am certainly not a doctor. These tests were unlikely to be positive given the event as there was no intercourse.
Urine analysis looked okay. Red and white blood cell counts were okay, no bacteria infection or UTI found or diagnosed based on urine culture.
Treatment:
I have seen 5 urologists, 1 dermatologists and 1 family practice doctor. I have had 2 cystoscopies, and nothing was found (same urologist).
A family practice doctor thought it was due to some soap or lotion, but referred me to the 1st urologist. He thought nothing was visually wrong.
The 1st and 2nd urologist said they have no clue as there was nothing outside of normal visual tolerance. The 2nd urologist gave me the 2 cystoscopies (camera up the urethra to the bladder) and nothing abnormal was found.
2nd urologist thought it was contact dermatitis due to the rash as nothing surfaced in either cystoscopy. My prostate was examined physically and was ruled to be okay. He referred me to another urologist and also said I should see a dermatologist.
The 3rd urologist confirmed the inflammation in the glans. He suggested to try Quercetin (there are clinical trials which have shown it has helped the prostate) and then potentially Doxy over a longer period as a next step (can be anti-inflammatory). My fear is taking an antibiotic without having a bacteria pathogen diagnosis could be pointless.
The 4th urologist (who the 2nd urologist referred me to) believed that this was related to nerves in the penis. He is a pain specialist and put me on Nortriptyline.
The dermatologist (urologist said I should see one) also saw inflammation and diagnosed the rash as a non-infectious seborrheic dermatitis. He prescribed a topical antibiotic / corticosteroid, which I used. I also tried a steroid. It has reduced some of the redness but not relieve any of the described pain or urine dribble. I am concerned about the use of a topical for an extended period (skin thinning) and have stopped using it. I have a follow-up visit with him scheduled.
Medication:
1. Doxycycline 100mg x2 times a day for 10 days, initially when symptoms started. No relief.
2. Topical cream for rash: Ala-Quin initially for 4 weeks, then tried another steroid cream. Has somewhat resolved the rash issue (not totally).
3. Metronidazole (Flagyl) 2g, x 1 dose for Trich as there is not a great test for this (urine apparently has weak sensitivity). Trich can cause swelling, come and go symptoms, etc.
4. Nortriptyline 20mg every day to resolve nerve issue. I just started this.
5. Supplements currently taking: 1g of Quercetin daily (shown to reduce inflation in clinical trials), Multivitamin, AHCC, Folic Acid, Vitamin E and B12.
The symptoms continue to persist and these treatments have not worked.
My Questions:
1. Does this sound like an STD? Could it be another bacteria pathogen or NGU?
2. If this nerve related due to some trauma, would it cause the rash?
3. Are there any ideas regarding further testing or a diagnosis? I was considering a semen culture but don't know where to have this done.
4. Would a HPV virus cause these symptoms? In men, I believe the HPV virus is typically asymptomatic and/or presents itself with warts.
5. How can I test for HPV other than a biopsy of the penis or penis scrape (which most doctors don’t perform)?
6. Could this be yeast related based on the symptoms? I have noticed an increased coating on my tongue which scrapes off and dry mouth symptoms. I have also noticed the coating and dry mouth is much worse after drinking alcohol or eating sugar (yeast related).
I should mention that my anxiety over this is through the roof and am aware of some changes in my body as a result of it (anxious, no hunger at times, weight loss, etc.). I also think the dry mouth could be related to anxiety.
Please, I am looking for some help! I know there is someone out there that can help me as this has gone on for so long. This is such a struggle and always on my mind.
Further, I am terrified about infecting a new person who I just started dating. A couple doctors indicated that I was safe to have intercourse as I was well tested, but I don’t feel right about having intercourse with the symptoms persistent.
Thanks all for your help. - Steve
12 likes, 867 replies
johnfigs19xx Guest
Edited
i have so many issues , so many doctors with no luck but im so hungry for an answer , if a doctor told me to eat dirt i probably would if it meant me feeling better !
matthew86678 Guest
Posted
Hi. ive been having very similar symptoms to you. safe to say its been very frustrating. Been on Doxycycline which did nothing. Have you found any relief?
Patient1991 Guest
Edited
I'm having the exact same issues for two weeks now. No STDs. Swelling has went down after taking clotrimazole and doxys. Really sensitive kind of red in the middle of meatus. Seem doc twice and now I'm on fluconazole. Will update you guys to let you know if it's cleared up.
ed68163 Patient1991
Posted
doxy has anti-inflammitory properties so it would help any kinda of inflammation. look up micAAAogenAAAdx (delete a's) it wont let me share this service because it thinks its advertising
mike01515 ed68163
Edited
have any of you guys tried Hydroxzine ?? doc gave me these a while back at my last visit and never took them, started taking them a few days ago and have great results with it. my pain and redness have went from a 10 to a 2 . although i dont think it is fixing the underlined condition but has helped a great deal for the last 2 days, had sex 5 times in the last 2 days with no pain afterwards . just sharing the info, maybe it might help some others .
ed68163 mike01515
Posted
ive not tried that medication. ive been inactive here for a month or so. just took that neg gen urine test everyone recommended so im waiting for results now. my pain is almost gone and ive been having sex here n there. mostly without pain. as long as i dont have rough sex for like 20 min. ive been having urgant urinations still but my pain and inflammation are gone
BigDaddyShane Guest
Edited
I've had this for 2 years now. It's terrible for my sex life, just awful. I've been tested for everything and have taken every antibiotic for this kind of issue. I have been reading that it could possibly be a pinched pudendal nerve caused by a herniated spinal disk. I have not seen a specialist about this possibility yet, but I plan to soon.
ed68163 BigDaddyShane
Posted
stress can cause the pudendal muscle to tense up as well. ive considered this because i was extremely stressed after a risky sexual encounter. im not stressed about it anymore and still have the issue, leading me to believe its not likely the cause of my condition
mike84602 Guest
Edited
Hi everyone
Firstly I was so reassured when I found this message forum as I thought I was the only one suffering with this condition.
To sum up, im 30 years old and have been suffering with the same symptoms as a lot of men have reported on this forum. I have had symptoms for 3 months. Been tested for STDs and UTIs four times and have all been negative. I had a further more in depth sexual health test which looked at ureaplasma, mycoplasma and others and still negative.
My symptoms started after a one time encounter with a woman. oral and vaginally. literally the day later I had pain in my balls, followed by penis pain down the whole underside and itching stinging inside the tip. no visible blisters but did get a bit red around the foreskin.
I have seen different GPs and one urologist. both GPs diagnosed prostatitis but I dont think its that. the urologist diagnosed urethritis and said some bacteria are not always detected in tests and are hard to treat.
I have been on four weeks of cipro - my advice to anyone is to avoid this antibiotic at all costs if possible. it made me a zombie
I tried originally a week course of doxy as a precaution before my first sexual health results.
I also got so anxious that I started self diagnosing and buying antibiotics of all different types online. I have taken almost every single antibiotic to treat all STDs even though all my tests have been negative. (I was panicking) I strongly advise no one does this.
my urologist prescribed a prolonged course of cefalexin which I am currently still on.
my symptoms have got better over time. but if im honest I don't think any of the antibiotics have helped. I started taking different herbal remedies. I take saw palmetto (just in case it is my prostate), D-mannose which apparently helps stop bacteria from sticking to the urethra, I also take bee pollen, CBD oil capsules (for inflammation and stress, also helps you sleep), I have also started taking probitoics VSL3 as I have read on women's columns it helps a lot with UTIs, allicin garlic, and I drink plenty of pomegranate and cranberry juice. Now I'm not saying the antibiotics didnt help but fluoroquinlones made me feel awful.
another guy on here mentioned using castor oil and he put it on a cue tip and put it inside his urethra. im not brave enough for that but I opened up the tip and poured a little down. I then rub the rest in to the head and it actually feels incredible. it stops the itching and it is working wonders for me. im not 100% and it may be a placebo but my god it helps right now. im so thankful that a lot of guys have mentioned what is working for them.
I hope that some of the things I am doing also works for others. this ordeal has made me so depressed and for a guy who is normally incredibly active and workout almost everyday this situation has dampened my mood to say the least. I think the true cure or treatment really is time, keeping your mind and body busy, forgiving yourself if you feel shame from the cause of this pain and drinking plenty of water, finding herbal ways and stocking up on probiotics.
I hope to hear from you all soon
all the best
Mike
Steves8012 mike84602
Posted
Sounds like you've been through it. Would avoid internet purchased antibiotics. If bacterial sounds like you would have sorted by now. Going through something similar, all tests (lots) negatives. Doctors put down to non specific balanitis and assure me nothing sinister but no suggestion as to how to sort and can have lots of causes
mike84602 Steves8012
Posted
thanks for the reply steves.
my urologist has diagnosed as non specific urethritis
my symptoms have improved but some days they are more apparent than other days. mainly a slight itch sensation inside the tip of of the penis. frequent urination but not as often as it was. and sometimes a slight sting after ejaculation.
are there any remedies that are working for you to ease your symptoms?
Steves8012 mike84602
Edited
Mines more of an issue on the glans. Diagnosed with non specific balanitis so no one has any idea of cause. Steroid ointment helps it settle when flares but nothings fixed the issue to date (also done a fair few antibiotics!)
anony80714 Guest
Posted
I have something similar. I'm circumcised and there is tingling sensation inside the tip of my penis. It makes me feel like urinating often although I don't have any issues with intolerance and nor do i have any STD as I've never had sexual intercourse.
I've found that coconut oil and Vaseline keeps the symptoms at bay but it still pops up from time to time. Anyone has any clue what this is called? Why can't any Urologists identify it?
eric16001 Guest
Posted
You can add another guy to your list. I'll spare the usual intro as I went through the same path. No std's, creams, antibiotics etc. Will try cipro next visit but very sceptical it will work.
So far the best results I had was anti-fungal cream but probably from abstinance and the fact that it keeps it mosturized. One doc had a different view and made me try oxide zinc cream which made it worse but I liked his idea.
Ive came to noticed that the flare ups are not coming from below like prostate etc. Always after sex or masturbation, like any friction done to the meatus makes it swell.
I too got this a week after risky oral. Been so long now that my meatus looks different as one lip flares up and now permantly bigger.
mike01515 Guest
Posted
im not sure what else to do. the stress alone is killing me. the doctors pretty much dont know what else to do and dont even want to see me anymore because there are no other options .. anyone have any suggestions?
caleb04109 mike01515
Posted
mike have you tried pelvic floor exercises or seen a physio? 90% of cases if not more of non bacterial prostatis is caused from the pelvic floor muscles. no amount of antibiotics will cure this.
you need to stretch for at least 10-20mins morning and night for months not just a few days.
john58680 mike01515
Posted
There is a condition called diaper rash or iad (Incontinence-associated dermatitis) it's basically a wound that won't heal because it's always wet and irritated of urine constantly touching it makes sense to me. Ask your doctor and google about it it's very important to clean your glans properly and avoid urine sitting on your glans. I'm dealing with this for a month now it's a disaster because it's very hard to clean that area and without the right equipment it's even damaging i don't want my skin to dry out. I will see my doctor again next week i just found out about iad and it makes sense to me i will ask my doctor about it.