Unusual Penis Rash From Erythema

By John Dugan

A rash can occur anywhere on the body. While people find rashes on the arms or face very regrettable, a guy especially is annoyed when he develops a penis rash. Sure, the rash is not seen by as many individuals (unless he's attending a nudist convention, of course), but the people likely to see it are probably those he really wants to impress. And since a penis rash can sometimes mean that there is a penis health issue present that may preclude sexual gratification, preventing or treating a penis rash is usually of keen importance. For that reason, it pays to know about many different potential causes of penis rash, including one known as erythema multiforme.

Erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme is classified as a hypersensitivity disorder that presents as eruptions on the skin. These eruptions tend to be red welts, which may be purplish in the center, in some cases giving it the appearance of a "target." They may also form blisters, and ridges around the edges are not uncommon. Itching usually accompanies the welts; some patients also report experiencing a burning sensation.

The welts can appear anywhere on the body, including the penis and surrounding areas. Typically they appear suddenly and without notice, often in large groups. Some versions disappear in a few days; almost all disappear within two to three weeks. It is not unusual for a person to have two or three outbreaks within a year or so.

Erythema multiforme is considered a milder form of another disorder, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Men are more likely than women to contract it, and although it can appear at any age, it is more likely to occur in childhood and young adulthood.

Cause

So why does a person get erythema multiforme? Doctors wish they knew. The exact cause of this condition is not known. However, it often occurs in conjunction with or shortly after an infection, and is also associated with an outbreak of herpes simplex virus. There also are some medications that seem to forecast erythema in some individuals, including some antibiotics, anticonvulsants and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Treatment

Erythema multiforme tends to be self-healing, meaning that it will go away on its own if left alone. But a guy with a penis rash, especially an itchy or burning one, may not want to wait for a couple of weeks to get some relief.

Finding the trigger is usually the first step. If it seems to be in reaction to a medication the man is taking, he and his doctor should determine an alternative that can be used. Often, using antihistamines can help to relieve itching and burning. If the welts are oozing or over-sensitive, applying a moist compress to them can be helpful. If a determination is made that the erythema is actually a more severe form, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, further treatment may be called for.

It also helps to limit physical irritation of the penis rash. Wearing loose boxers rather than tight briefs may be useful. When possible, wearing no clothes may also further limit irritation and speed recovery.

Erythema multiforme can create a nasty penis rash, but it's not the only cause of penis skin issues. Strengthening the penis skin by regularly utilizing a top flight    penis health cr�me (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) can help prevent other rash situations. Take care when selecting a cr�me and definitely choose one that features both a high-end emollient (such as Shea butter) and a natural hydrator (such as vitamin E) to provide ample moisturization opportunities. The best cr�me will also include a powerful antioxidant, ideally alpha lipoic acid. This antioxidant helps fight excess free radicals and thereby limits damage due to unwanted oxidative stress.

Visit www.menshealthfirst.com for more information about treating common penis health problems, including soreness, redness and loss of penis sensation. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.