Painful Glans: Causes and Treatment Options

Pain in the glans?

The glans has become red, and the surrounding foreskin is also somewhat red.
Sometimes, there is some discharge, and recently, urination has been painful.
Currently, the area around the foreskin is more red, and the discharge from the glans has noticeably decreased.
I would like to ask the doctor what disease this might be and how it should be treated.

Mr. Wang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/25

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It is clearly inflamed! Do not delay your condition with questions! It is recommended to see a urologist for treatment as soon as possible!

Reply Date: 2019/05/25

More Info

Understanding painful glans, or glans penis, involves recognizing the symptoms and potential underlying causes. The symptoms you describe—redness of the glans and foreskin, discharge, and painful urination—are indicative of several possible conditions, including balanitis, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or other inflammatory conditions.

Possible Causes
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, often caused by poor hygiene, irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or infections (bacterial or fungal). Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, and sometimes discharge. In some cases, balanitis can be associated with phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted.

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Conditions such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, or herpes can cause similar symptoms. These infections may lead to discharge, pain during urination, and inflammation of the glans and surrounding areas.

3. Yeast Infections: Candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida species, can also lead to redness, swelling, and discharge. This is more common in individuals with diabetes or those who are immunocompromised.

4. Contact Dermatitis: Allergic reactions to soaps, lubricants, or latex can cause inflammation and redness of the glans and foreskin.

5. Other Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as lichen sclerosus or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to discomfort and changes in skin appearance.

Treatment Options
1. Good Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and ensure it is thoroughly dried afterward. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants.

2. Topical Treatments: Depending on the cause, topical antifungal creams (for yeast infections), antibiotics (for bacterial infections), or corticosteroids (for inflammatory conditions) may be prescribed. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for the appropriate medication.

3. Oral Medications: If an STI is diagnosed, oral antibiotics or antiviral medications may be necessary.
4. Avoid Irritants: If contact dermatitis is suspected, identify and avoid potential irritants. This may include changing soaps, avoiding certain fabrics, or using hypoallergenic products.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They may perform tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms, including swabs for infections or blood tests.

6. Follow-Up: If symptoms persist despite treatment, a follow-up appointment may be necessary to reassess the condition and consider further diagnostic testing or referral to a specialist, such as a urologist or dermatologist.

Conclusion
In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing could be due to a variety of conditions, and proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications.

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