Itchy Foreskin and Glans: Causes and Solutions

Q: Itchy Foreskin and Glans: Causes and Solutions

Hello： Itching with flaking skin is often indicative of inflammation, which is not necessarily related to sexual activity; it can also be due to general dampness and heat. <br>Wishing you good health.

Itching of the foreskin and glans?

Recently, the weather has been cold and rainy, and I've been urinating quite frequently.
While there isn't much issue when urinating, due to the cold weather, I've noticed that my penis has shrunk significantly, and there seems to be more foreskin than usual (the foreskin can completely retract during an erection and can also be fully flipped back).
When not erect, it appears smaller than before, but the size during an erection is the same.
The foreskin seems a bit long when I urinate, and after urinating, there seems to be some residual urine trapped under the foreskin, which causes some itching at the junction of the foreskin and glans.
I usually clean this area daily, and even though it may itch immediately after urinating, it continues to itch after washing.
When I manipulate the area, the itching becomes more pronounced.
I don't experience much itching when sitting or lying down, but sometimes it itches while walking or when I touch it.
It also itches during sexual activity, and I’m not sure why, as this wasn't an issue before.
I've been using the same body wash for a long time.
I'm unsure if this is due to the cold weather or the urination issue.
Once, when I retracted the foreskin, I noticed some small white spots that looked like peeling skin (it shouldn't be smegma since I clean daily), but they disappeared after washing.
I have a fixed sexual partner, and we engage in sexual activity almost every three days, always using condoms.
My partner does not have any vaginal inflammation, and I haven't noticed any unusual discharge from my mouth or genital area.
The surface of the glans appears normal; it's just the area where the foreskin meets the glans that itches a bit.

Mr. Tong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Itching with flaking skin is often indicative of inflammation, which is not necessarily related to sexual activity; it can also be due to general dampness and heat.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/02/04

More Info

Itchy foreskin and glans can be a common issue, and understanding the potential causes and solutions is essential for effective management. Based on your description, it seems like you are experiencing discomfort primarily at the junction of the foreskin and glans, which can be attributed to several factors.

Possible Causes
1. Irritation from Urine Residue: After urination, if urine remains trapped under the foreskin, it can lead to irritation and itching. This is especially true if you have a longer foreskin that may not retract fully during urination. The residual urine can create a moist environment that promotes irritation.

2. Skin Sensitivity: Changes in weather, such as cold and damp conditions, can affect skin sensitivity. Cold weather can cause the skin to become drier, leading to increased sensitivity and itching. Additionally, if you are using any new soaps or body washes, even if they are the same brand, slight changes in formulation can lead to irritation.

3. Fungal or Yeast Infection: The area under the foreskin is warm and moist, which can create an ideal environment for fungal infections, such as candidiasis. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and sometimes a white discharge or peeling skin.

4. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can be caused by poor hygiene, irritants, or infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and itching.

5. Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis can occur due to irritation from soaps, lotions, or even laundry detergents. If you have recently changed any products, this could be a contributing factor.

Solutions and Management
1. Hygiene Practices: Continue to maintain good hygiene by gently cleaning the area under the foreskin with warm water daily. Avoid using harsh soaps or body washes that can irritate the sensitive skin.

2. Drying the Area: After washing, ensure that the area is thoroughly dried. You might consider using a soft towel to gently pat the area dry, as moisture can exacerbate irritation.

3. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that a product may be causing irritation, try eliminating it for a period to see if symptoms improve. This includes soaps, lotions, and even laundry detergents.

4. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help reduce inflammation and itching. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any topical medications.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the itching persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend tests to rule out infections or other underlying conditions. If a fungal infection is suspected, antifungal treatments may be prescribed.

6. Consider Circumcision: In some cases, if recurrent issues with the foreskin are present, circumcision may be considered as a long-term solution. This is typically discussed with a urologist.

Conclusion
While the symptoms you are experiencing can be uncomfortable, they are often manageable with proper care and attention. It’s crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they do not improve or if you notice any new symptoms. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will ensure that you receive the best care tailored to your specific situation.

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