Men’s intimate health is a topic that is often not talked about much. Many men underestimate the alarming symptoms, postponing a visit to the doctor for later. Meanwhile, diseases of the genital organs can lead to serious consequences, including infertility. In this article, you will learn what are the most common conditions affecting men, how to recognize them, and where to go for help.
The most common diseases of the genital organs in men
Diseases of the male genital organs are a wide group of diseases that can affect men of all ages. The most common include:
- Prostatitis: is an inflammation of the prostate gland that manifests itself as pain in the perineum, burning sensation when urinating, pollakiuria and erection problems.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia: As we age, the prostate becomes enlarged, which can lead to pressure on the urethra and problems with urination. Symptoms include, m.in, weak urine stream, pollakiuria, bladder urgency, and even urinary retention.
- Prostate cancer: This is one of the most common cancers in men. In the initial stage, it is often asymptomatic, which is why regular preventive examinations are so important.
- Erectile dysfunction: the problem of getting or maintaining an erection. The causes can be both physical (e.g. cardiovascular disease, diabetes) and mental (e.g. stress, depression). Phimosis: is a narrowing of the foreskin that prevents it from sliding off the glans penis. It can lead to inflammation and hinder hygiene.
- Peyronie’s disease: is a condition characterized by the bending of the penis due to the formation of scars in the corpora cavernosum. It can cause pain and make sexual intercourse difficult.
- Inflammation of the testicle and epididymis: is an inflammation of the testicle or epididymis that manifests itself as pain and swelling of the scrotum. It is most often caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
- Varicocele: This is a widening of the veins in the scrotum that can lead to pain and discomfort, and in some cases, infertility.
Causes of genital diseases in men
The causes of diseases of the male genital organs are diverse. The most important are:
- Infections: bacterial, viral, fungal
- Genetic factors: predisposition to certain diseases, e.g. prostate cancer
- Lifestyle: smoking, alcohol abuse, obesity, physical inactivity
- Injuries: mechanical damage to the genitals
- Chronic diseases: diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases
- Hormonal disorders: testosterone deficiency
- Stress: negatively affects the immune and endocrine systems
Symptoms to look out for
Many diseases of the genital organs in the early stage are asymptomatic or with uncharacteristic symptoms. That is why it is so important to regularly self-examine and pay attention to any disturbing signals, such as:
- Pain: in the perineum, testicles, penis area
- Edema: testicles, scrotum
- Skin lesions: on the penis, scrotum
- Urethral discharge: purulent, mucous, bloody
- Problems with urination: pollakiuria, pain, burning, weak urine stream, hematuria
- Erection problems: difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Changes in the ejaculate: blood in the semen, decreased ejaculate volume
Diagnosis and treatment
In the event of alarming symptoms, you should consult a doctor, preferably a urologist. The doctor will conduct an interview, physical examination and order necessary diagnostic tests, such as:
- Urine test: detects infections, blood in the urine
- Blood test: assessment of prostate condition (PSA), hormone levels
- Ultrasound: imaging examination of the genitals
- Biopsy: collection of a tissue fragment for histopathological examination (e.g. in the case of suspected prostate cancer)
Treatment of genital diseases depends on the type of disease and its severity. The following are used in treatment, m.in:
- Medications: antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal drugs
- Surgical procedures: in the case of phimosis, varicocele, prostate cancer
- Psychotherapy: in the case of erectile dysfunction with a psychological background
Prevention of genital diseases
Many diseases of the genital organs can be avoided by following the principles of prevention:
- Hygiene: regular washing of the genitals, avoiding sexual relations with casual partners
- Healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, physical activity, avoiding smoking and alcohol abuse
- Regular preventive examinations: visit to the urologist once a year, PSA test after the age of 40
- Vaccinations: against hepatitis B, HPV
- Self-examination: regular checking of the condition of the genitals
Remember that early detection of the disease increases the chances of cure and avoiding complications. Do not ignore the alarming symptoms and see a doctor!
Remark:
The above article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a doctor. If you experience any alarming symptoms, you should immediately contact a specialist.
