Definition
A burning sensation in the area of the glans, at the tip of the male penis, can be permanent or occur in certain situations. Some men feel the burning sensation in selected situations for long periods of time, but in most cases it is temporary. The burning sensation is usually intensified by urination or ejaculation and then subsides.
Causes
The causes for an unpleasant burning of the glans can be manifold. Often the cause lies with the urethra. This can be irritated for no apparent reason and can hurt when touched.
During both urination and ejaculation, fluids flow through the urethra and can cause an unpleasant sensation if the urethra is irritated. If the pain when urinating lasts for several days, a doctor should clarify possible causes. Pain can also be caused by an inflammation of the glans.
In case of inflammation, the affected area becomes infected with a bacterium or other pathogen. Typical signs of inflammation are redness, swelling and pain. If there is pain in the area of the glans, the ureter or the glans itself may be inflamed.
A distinction is therefore made between “urethritis” and “balanitis”. Causes of inflammation with pathogens are mainly insufficient hygiene, which can also be caused by a narrowing of the foreskin (phimosis). Venereal diseases can also cause inflammation of the male member.
The most common diseases are chlamydia infections, gonorrhea, thrush, Reiter’s disease and, more rarely, syphilis. Condoms, strong friction on the limb, easily bleeding wounds and diabetes mellitus can promote inflammation of the glans and urethra. In rare cases, excessive cleanliness of the penis can also cause infections.
Since too frequent washing degreases and damages the natural skin flora, disease-causing bacteria can settle in the area. In the case of the so-called STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), a mucous membrane infection of the urethra (urethritis) often occurs. The two main symptoms leading to a suspected diagnosis are on the one hand the burning sensation in the urethra and on the other hand the so-called “Bonjour drops”.
The latter describe a yellowish-white discharge in the morning. In case of suspicion one should consult the family doctor. Specialists in this field are either urologists or dermatologists.
Diagnostically, a smear of the urethra is indispensable, preferably also before obtaining a urine sample. Cultures can be made from both materials to determine exactly which pathogens are involved. It is important to note that in suspected cases, the partner must always be treated as well in order to avoid the so-called “ping-pong effect” (repeated mutual infection with the pathogens).
