Redness and Itching on the Glans: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Redness and Itching on the Glans: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： If there has been unprotected sexual intercourse, it is advisable to seek medical attention. <br>If not, it may be due to the body wash; it is recommended not to use it again. <br>Wishing you good health.

The glans is red and patchy?

On the day I took a shower, I used body wash.
During the night, I felt itchy and scratched.
When I woke up, I noticed that the glans was red in patches, but it didn't hurt.
The area where the foreskin connects was also red and slightly painful.
Later that afternoon, the red patches on the glans disappeared.
Since it was a Sunday, I couldn't see a doctor and decided to wait until the next day.
However, when I woke up the next day, there was no pain, no redness, and no itching.
I'm wondering if this is normal and if I still need to see a doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/15

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If there has been unprotected sexual intercourse, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
If not, it may be due to the body wash; it is recommended not to use it again.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/04/15

More Info

When it comes to understanding redness and itching on the glans (the head of the penis), it’s important to consider several factors, including the symptoms, potential causes, and when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced transient symptoms of redness and itching, which resolved by the next day. This can be indicative of a few different conditions, and I will outline some possibilities as well as guidance on when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Redness and Itching
1. Irritation or Allergic Reaction: The use of a new body wash or soap can sometimes cause irritation or an allergic reaction, leading to redness and itching. This is especially true if the product contains fragrances or harsh chemicals that may not be suitable for sensitive skin.

2. Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can cause redness and itching. These infections can sometimes resolve on their own, but they may recur.

3. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, which can be caused by poor hygiene, infections, or irritants. Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, and itching.

4. Contact Dermatitis: This is a skin reaction resulting from contact with an irritant or allergen. Symptoms include redness, itching, and sometimes blistering.

5. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): While your symptoms resolved quickly, it’s important to consider STIs as a potential cause of genital symptoms. However, these typically present with additional symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given that your symptoms resolved quickly and you are not experiencing pain or persistent itching, it may not be necessary to seek immediate medical attention. However, you should consider seeing a healthcare provider if:
- Symptoms Recur: If you experience similar symptoms again, especially if they last longer or are accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge, pain, or swelling.

- Persistent Symptoms: If redness or itching returns and does not resolve within a few days, it’s advisable to consult a doctor.

- Additional Symptoms: If you develop any new symptoms, such as discharge, pain during urination, or fever, you should seek medical attention promptly.

- Concerns About STIs: If there is any possibility of exposure to sexually transmitted infections, it is wise to get tested, even if symptoms are mild or have resolved.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms appear to have resolved on their own, it’s essential to monitor for any recurrence or new symptoms. If you have any concerns, especially regarding potential infections or if you notice any changes in your condition, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough examination and appropriate testing if necessary. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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