Redness and Swelling of the Foreskin: Causes and Treatments

Redness and swelling at the tip of the foreskin leading to a constricted opening with minor skin tears?

One day, I noticed redness, swelling, and itching at the tip of my foreskin (I have not engaged in sexual intercourse but have masturbated).
After about two days, the swelling slightly decreased, but I found that I could not retract the foreskin fully, and the glans felt tightly constricted, causing me daily pain when trying to clean it.
How should I apply medication, and which one do you recommend? Is it possible for the opening of the foreskin to heal? I found information online suggesting that there might be a blood clot at the tip of the foreskin; is that true? Currently, I am using a hydrophilic ointment called Jengfu Min, which was recommended by a pharmacist.
I have been using it for about three days, and aside from slight reduction in swelling, there has been no improvement.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/30

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

Outpatient examination, physician's prescription.

Reply Date: 2016/08/30

More Info

Redness and swelling of the foreskin can be concerning and uncomfortable. The symptoms you describe, including redness, swelling, and itching at the tip of the foreskin, are often indicative of a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can involve the foreskin as well. This condition can arise from various causes, including infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or even allergic reactions.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have not engaged in sexual intercourse but have been involved in masturbation, it is possible that friction or irritation from these activities could have contributed to the inflammation. Additionally, if there is any underlying infection, it could exacerbate the symptoms you are experiencing.

The fact that you are experiencing difficulty retracting the foreskin and that the glans feels tightly bound could suggest a condition known as phimosis, which is when the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans. This can sometimes occur as a result of inflammation or scarring.

Regarding treatment, it is essential to maintain good hygiene in the area. Gently cleaning the area with warm water and avoiding any harsh soaps or irritants is crucial. As for topical treatments, hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation and itching, but it is important to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The product you mentioned, "净肤敏亲水软膏" (which translates to a hydrophilic ointment), may provide some relief, but if you have not seen significant improvement after three days, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

If the swelling and redness persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as discharge, fever, or severe pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may prescribe a topical antifungal or antibiotic if an infection is suspected. In some cases, if phimosis is diagnosed, further treatment options may be necessary, which could include topical steroids to help loosen the foreskin or, in more severe cases, surgical options.

In summary, while some cases of foreskin inflammation can resolve with proper hygiene and topical treatments, persistent symptoms warrant a visit to a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and tailored treatment plan. It is essential to address any underlying issues to prevent recurrence and ensure proper healing.

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