Red Glans: Causes, Treatment Options, and When to See a Doctor - Urology

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Red glans, or redness of the glans penis, can be a concerning symptom for many individuals. It can arise from various causes, including infections, irritations, or underlying medical conditions. In your case, you mentioned experiencing redness along with small white bumps, which you suspect may be related to a fungal infection. Despite using a topical antifungal cream, you have not seen improvement, and you are wondering about further treatment options and whether you should return to the hospital for a follow-up.


Causes of Red Glans
1. Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can cause redness and irritation of the glans. The presence of white bumps may indicate a fungal infection, especially if there is associated itching or discomfort.


2. Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections, including balanitis, can also lead to redness and inflammation. This condition may be caused by poor hygiene, irritants, or sexually transmitted infections.

3. Irritation: Irritation from soaps, lotions, or even friction from sexual activity can cause redness. Allergic reactions to products used in the genital area can also lead to similar symptoms.

4. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as psoriasis or eczema can affect the genital area, leading to redness and scaling.

5. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs can present with redness and bumps on the glans, so it is essential to consider this possibility if you have had unprotected sexual contact.


Treatment Options
1. Topical Antifungals: If a fungal infection is suspected, continuing with antifungal creams like clotrimazole or miconazole may be beneficial. However, if there is no improvement after a week or two, it may be time to reassess.

2. Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.

3. Avoid Irritants: Ensure that you are using mild, unscented soaps and avoid any products that may cause irritation. Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial.

4. Steroid Creams: In cases of inflammation due to dermatitis or other skin conditions, a mild topical steroid may help reduce redness and irritation.

5. Oral Medications: If the condition is severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend oral medications, either antifungal or antibiotic, depending on the underlying cause.


When to See a Doctor
Given that you have already tried a topical antifungal without improvement, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. A doctor can perform a physical examination and may recommend additional tests, such as a culture or biopsy, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. This step is crucial, especially if you suspect a sexually transmitted infection or if the symptoms worsen.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for redness of the glans, proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Since your symptoms have not improved with initial treatment, seeking further medical advice is the best course of action. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the appropriate next steps and ensure that you receive the most effective treatment for your condition.