Five warning signs men should always check for according to experts

A men’s health specialist has shared five different warning signs men should be checking themselves for. Experts say they could be a symptom of something serious.

Men's sexual health expert, Dr Peter White, has shed light on the importance of recognising common symptoms. He has also explained what they may indicate - including potential issues with penile health.

The doctor warned of changes to the skin, urine and ejaculation. He says being mindful and proactive about your sexual health is essential to your overall wellbeing.

Beyond the obvious signs, such as pain, swelling or discharge, there are some subtle indicators. Sometimes these can hint at underlying health issues that you men may not even be aware of.

Dr White commented: “It’s important to remember that penile health is not just about physical appearance; it's a reflection of overall wellbeing. Everyone is unique in appearance, but identifying and tackling problems and issues early is crucial.”

“It's also crucial to prioritise regular exercise, manage stress effectively, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking. Engaging in consistent physical activity not only improves cardiovascular function and enhances blood flow, crucial for penile arousal and performance, but also supports hormonal balance, including testosterone levels, which are essential for maintaining a healthy sex drive.”

1. Curvature

Penile curvature, while in most cases is normal, can sometimes indicate Peyronie's disease, a disorder where scar tissue, called plaque, forms under the skin of the penis, and causes excessive bending during erection. Lifestyle adjustments are crucial in managing Peyronie's disease and promoting penile health.

These adjustments may include maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and engaging in regular physical activity. Additionally, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can support your overall well-being.

2. Changes in urine

One thing to be on the lookout for is changes in the way you urinate. This can be anything from how often (or not) you go to the bathroom, how much you urinate and colour.

They may indicate underlying health conditions, such as urinary tract infections, prostate issues, or metabolic disorders like diabetes. These changes serve as crucial warning signs, prompting individuals to seek medical evaluation and intervention.

• Increased urination frequency - If you’re finding yourself frequently needing to urinate could be a sign of urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially if it’s accompanied by a burning sensation. It may also indicate an overactive bladder or prostate issues such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Additionally, increased urination can be a symptom of diabetes, as the body attempts to expel excess glucose through urine.

• Decreased urination frequency - Urinating less frequently can be a sign of dehydration. It may also indicate an obstruction in the urinary tract or severe kidney issues where the kidneys are not filtering urine effectively.

• Weak urine stream - A weak or interrupted urine stream can be associated with prostate problems, such as BPH or prostate cancer, which can obstruct the flow of urine. Urethral strictures, which narrow the urethra due to injury or infection, can also cause a weak stream.

• Changes in urine colour - A dark urine colour often means you’re dehydrated, but can also signal liver problems if the urine is dark brown. Red or pink urine may suggest the presence of blood, which could be due to a variety of causes, including infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions such as bladder or kidney cancer.

3. Abnormalities on the skin

Dr White warns that any changes to the skin on or around the penis should be noted and taken seriously, no matter how big or small. Even small differences in texture, colour, or appearance, like rashes, bumps, or spots, should be given attention.

While some changes may just be minor irritations or reactions, others could signal fungal infections. You should be on the lookout for:

• Rashes - A rash on the penis can have multiple causes, such as a fungal infection or contact dermatitis (an allergic reaction to soaps or lotions) can be common causes. A healthcare professional should evaluate persistent rashes that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments.

• Bumps and lumps - Bumps on the penis can vary in significance. Small, flesh-coloured bumps may be pearly penile papules, which are harmless. However, bumps can also indicate genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), molluscum contagiosum (a viral infection), or more serious conditions like penile cancer, especially if the bumps change in size or shape.

• Blisters and ulcers - Blisters, which can burst and form painful ulcers, are often a sign of genital herpes. Painless ulcers, on the other hand, may be indicative of syphilis. These conditions require medical evaluation and treatment.

• White patches - White patches on the penile skin could be a sign of lichen sclerosus, a chronic skin condition that causes thin, white patches which can be very itchy. If left untreated, the condition can lead to scarring and phimosis (tightening of the foreskin).

• Scaling and cracking - Dry, scaly skin that cracks can be a symptom of psoriasis or eczema.. These conditions can cause significant discomfort and may require specific treatments to manage.

• Discolouration - Any sudden or unexplained discolouration, such as dark or light patches, should be noted. While some discoloration can be benign, it can also indicate skin conditions or infections.

4. Smell

A persistent penile odour can be worrying and may indicate underlying issues such as inadequate hygiene or infections like balanitis, when the head of the penis becomes swollen and sore. Regular washing with mild soap and water is crucial for maintaining good penile hygiene and preventing odour.

Additionally, wearing clean, breathable underwear made of natural fibres can help reduce moisture and bacterial growth.

5. Weak or reduced ejaculations

Weak or reduced ejaculations, where there is a noticeable decrease in the volume or force of ejaculation, can be a sign of underlying health issues. Here are some signs to keep in mind:

Decreased ejaculate volume - A reduction in ejaculate volume can be associated with several factors. It can occur naturally with age, but it may also indicate issues such as low testosterone levels, dehydration, or blockage in the ejaculatory ducts. Chronic conditions like diabetes can also impact ejaculate volume.

Weak ejaculatory force - A decrease in the force of ejaculation can be due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, which can result from ageing, lack of exercise, or certain medical conditions. It can also often be treated by making changes to your lifestyle, using medication to enhance your sexual function, taking part in therapy, or performing exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.