The rash on my penis has refused to go

Aug 23, 2009

Dear Doctor, I have had a rash on my penis and the medical personnel advised me to take ciprofloxacin, but there is no improvement. I am so worried, what can I do? Ronnie

The rash on my penis has refused to go
Dear Doctor, I have had a rash on my penis and the medical personnel advised me to take ciprofloxacin, but there is no improvement. I am so worried, what can I do? Ronnie

Dear Ronnie, A rash on the penis could be due to a number of conditions. They are most commonly due to sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, genital herpes and genital warts. Genital herpes is a very common cause of an itchy, blistering genital rash. It is caused by the human herpes simplex virus and is treatable using antiviral agents. Genital warts are less common but are also caused by a virus. Syphillis a common STI and may also present as a genital rash. Ciprofloxacin can be used to treat some of the causes of a genital rash but may not be effective against others. A more comprehensive approach needs to be followed in the management of these conditions. It would be wise for you to visit an STD clinic for proper assessment and care. A rash on the penis may also be due to an allergic reaction. It may also be necessary to carry out additional screening tests to ascertain the exact cause of the rash. Most importantly you may need to adjust your sexual behaviour in order to avoid infections like these. Live responsibly.

My ribs burn, I have an endless flow of sputum
Dear Doctor, I have had a problem with my breathing since 2004. It started after a terrible stress due to marital problems that led me to lose a lot of property. I also stopped having flu from that year up to date. I feel a burning sensation in my ribs — as if there is fire inside. Also, sputum keeps flowing from my throat as if there is pressure forcing it upwards. Recently I used steroids to treat myself, but in vain. All antibiotics have failed. Why and what is this burning deep in my ribs? Is there any other drug that can treat my condition? Why don;t I suffer from flu anymore? Pennelope

Dear Penelope It seems very clear to me that your symptoms are causing you significant distress. Chest pain is a common symptom that may be a sign of a serious problem inside the chest. There are a number of conditions that affect the different organs inside the chest and these could give rise to chest pain.

Your symptoms seem to be non-specific and so it would be wise for you to get a complete examination of your chest. This will include tests to check your lung function, heart function and the other organs in the chest. It is never wise to self-medicate yourself because this could have serious consequences. Visit a qualified medical doctor.

I do not think that the fact that you are free from flu should be a cause for concern. The chest pain you have may also be manifestation of an anxiety state. When an individual is subjected to significant levels of stress, tension may build up inside the body and this can manifest as physical symptoms such as pain.

You may also need some counselling to improve your stress management and coping skills. Whatever the cause, most chest conditions are treatable or can be adequately controlled so am confident that you will get better.

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