Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Solutions

Q: Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Solutions

Hello： Keep clean and dry, ensure adequate rest, pay attention to your diet by avoiding spicy foods, limit alcohol consumption, and use condoms during sexual activity. <br>Wishing you good health.

Red spots on the glans?

Hello Doctor, I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for over two years.
Although we do not use condoms, we are each other's regular sexual partners.
About a month ago, while I was performing oral sex on him, I noticed a dry patch on his glans.
Shortly after, it became red, resembling small smooth dry plaques that flare up intermittently.
Later, he developed dyshidrotic eczema on his palms and eczema on his limbs.
After visiting a dermatologist, it was confirmed that it is not syphilis, and I have not experienced any symptoms of a Candida infection.
My boyfriend's dyshidrotic eczema and eczema are almost healed, and his glans initially returned to normal, but the redness recurs whenever he stays up late and does not get enough sleep.
He finds this quite bothersome.
Could you please advise if there are any methods to expedite his recovery?

P, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Keep clean and dry, ensure adequate rest, pay attention to your diet by avoiding spicy foods, limit alcohol consumption, and use condoms during sexual activity.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/05/12

More Info

Understanding red spots on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning, especially when they appear alongside other skin conditions like eczema or dyshidrotic eczema (sweat blisters). Based on your description, it seems that your boyfriend has experienced a localized reaction on the glans, which may be influenced by several factors, including skin sensitivity, irritation, or even a mild infection.

1. Possible Causes: The red spots you described could be due to several reasons:
- Irritation or Allergic Reaction: This could be from friction during sexual activity, soaps, or other products that come into contact with the area. If he has sensitive skin, this could lead to localized dermatitis.

- Infection: While you mentioned that tests ruled out syphilis and that there is no yeast infection, other infections like bacterial or viral infections (such as herpes) could still be a consideration. However, the absence of other symptoms typically associated with infections makes this less likely.

- Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can manifest as red, dry patches on the skin. Given that your boyfriend has a history of eczema, this could be a flare-up related to his overall skin condition.

2. Management and Treatment: Here are some steps that may help alleviate the symptoms:
- Moisturization: Using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help soothe dry patches. Look for products specifically designed for sensitive skin.

- Avoid Irritants: Ensure that any soaps, lotions, or lubricants used are hypoallergenic and free from fragrances or harsh chemicals. It might be beneficial to avoid any products that could irritate the area until the symptoms resolve.

- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may help reduce inflammation and redness. However, it should be used sparingly and not for prolonged periods without consulting a healthcare provider.

- Good Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Encourage your boyfriend to gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and to ensure it is thoroughly dried afterward to prevent moisture buildup, which can exacerbate skin issues.

- Stress Management: Since you mentioned that the redness tends to recur when he is sleep-deprived, managing stress and ensuring adequate rest could be beneficial. Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, so practices like mindfulness, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet may help.

3. When to Seek Further Help: If the red spots persist despite these measures, or if they worsen, it would be wise for your boyfriend to consult a dermatologist or a urologist. They can provide a more thorough examination and may suggest prescription treatments or further testing to rule out any underlying conditions.

4. Communication and Support: It’s important to maintain open communication with your boyfriend about his symptoms and feelings. Skin conditions can sometimes lead to anxiety or embarrassment, so being supportive and understanding can help him feel more comfortable.

In summary, while the red spots on the glans may be concerning, they are often manageable with proper care and attention. By addressing potential irritants, maintaining good hygiene, and possibly using topical treatments, your boyfriend may find relief. However, if symptoms persist, seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action.

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