Causes of burning sensation in penis
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes and trichomoniasis can cause a burning sensation in the penis. These infections can sometimes come with additional symptoms like discharge, redness or sores. It’s important to see a doctor if you suspect an STI (and for regular sexual health checks if you’re sexually active) so you can get the right treatment to stop the burning and prevent more serious health consequences.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli). UTIs can cause a burning sensation, especially during urination. Other symptoms may include fever, frequent urination and cloudy urine. To diagnose a urinary tract infection, your doctor will test your urine to see which type of micro-organism is present. Early treatment of urinary tract infections can help to prevent infection from spreading to the bladder or kidneys.
Fungal infections
A yeast infection is when too much yeast, a type of fungus, grows on the skin. For men, this can happen on the penis, especially under the foreskin or in areas that stay warm and moist. Yeast infections can cause a burning sensation along with redness around the head of the penis, discharge and itching. Keeping the area clean and dry helps, and sometimes you need medicine from a doctor to stop the itching and get rid of the infection.
Friction
Irritation from friction happens when the skin on the penis rubs against something like clothing or during activities like sex or exercise. It can cause a burning sensation on your penis, as well as pain and redness. To prevent friction irritation, it’s helpful to wear appropriate clothing and use lubricants during sexual activity. Keeping the area dry and clean also helps reduce itching.
Urethritis
Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, the tube that transports urine from your bladder to outside your body. Urethritis can cause burning during urination and may be painful during ejaculation. Symptoms also include discharge from the penis. Urethritis can be caused by sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhoea, chlamydia and herpes, as well as bacteria, so it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get on top of treatment.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis can occur when bacteria move into the prostate gland and cause inflammation. Symptoms of prostatitis can vary depending on the type and cause, but may include a burning sensation when urinating. If you have symptoms of prostatitis, make an appointment to see your doctor. If you have a bacterial infection, a course of antibiotics may be enough to clear it.
Kidney stones
Kidney stones (also known as renal calculi) are solid deposits that can form in the urinary tract. The most common symptom is severe pain, usually in the side of the abdomen, but kidney stones can also cause a burning sensation as they pass through the urinary tract. Other symptoms include nausea, blood in your urine, fever and feeling like you need to wee more often. Treatment includes pain relief and lots of water to help pass the stone but sometimes a medical procedure is required to break up or remove larger stones.
Irritants
Certain soaps, detergents, or tight clothing can irritate the penis and cause a burning sensation. Allergies can cause burning on the penis if immune cells in the skin react to something that is usually harmless. To prevent irritation, it’s helpful to avoid using products with harsh chemicals. If the burning continues, a doctor might recommend a cream or medication to calm the reaction.
Penile cancer
In extremely rare cases, a persistent burning sensation could be a sign of penile cancer, especially if accompanied by pain, skin changes, swelling, a lump or sore. See a doctor as soon as possible if you notice these symptoms.
A burning sensation in the penis is not normal you should get it checked out by a doctor as soon as possible, especially if it lasts longer than a few days or is accompanied by other symptoms.
