Issues with the frenulum of the glans and balanitis?
A long time ago, I experienced bleeding due to a tear in the frenulum, which led to inflammation.
Since then, I have maintained cleanliness and had few recurrences.
After engaging in sexual activity with my girlfriend on May 23, I kept clean and stayed hydrated.
However, upon returning home, I noticed a warm and uncomfortable sensation on the glans.
Upon self-examination, I found that the frenulum had sustained a minor injury again.
This time, the tear is not severe, but there is a small red wound that does not bleed.
On May 25, I visited a doctor who diagnosed me with glans inflammation.
I have been taking medication and applying Meikang ointment.
It has been almost two weeks, and the discomfort has slightly decreased, but there is still redness near the urethra.
The area of redness is small.
I have the following questions:
1.
Could this inflammation also be caused by the small injury to the frenulum? I had been maintaining cleanliness before the injury and did not have any inflammation!
2.
Will applying Meikang ointment help the small red wound on the frenulum heal, or should I use a specialized wound ointment?
3.
For the small area of redness on the glans, how long should I continue applying the medication before stopping? I am concerned about the steroid content and worry that applying it for too long may not be good.
Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/02
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) If there was no redness in the past and now there is increased redness, it is likely due to inflammation.
2) If the wound is superficial, it will heal without the need for ointment, but it should be kept clean and dry; avoid moisture, and make sure to dry it after urination.
3) It is not necessary to use ointment; generally, it should improve within 3 days as long as it is kept clean and dry.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2020/06/02
More Info
Frenulum issues and glans inflammation, often referred to in urology as frenulum breve or posthitis, can be quite concerning for those affected. Your situation, involving a previous injury to the frenulum and subsequent inflammation of the glans, is not uncommon. Let’s break down your questions and provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition.
1. Cause of Inflammation: It is indeed possible that the small injury to the frenulum could have contributed to the inflammation of the glans. The frenulum is a sensitive area, and any trauma, even minor, can lead to irritation and inflammation, especially if it disrupts the normal protective barrier of the skin. Maintaining cleanliness is crucial, but minor injuries can still lead to localized inflammation or infection, particularly if there is any friction or trauma during sexual activity.
2. Healing with Medication: The use of topical medications like Meconazole (美康藥膏) can be beneficial in promoting healing. This medication is often used for its antifungal properties, but if your doctor prescribed it, they likely believe it will help with any potential fungal infection or irritation. However, if the injury is primarily a superficial cut or abrasion, a simple antiseptic ointment may suffice. If you notice that the area is not improving or if it worsens, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider for a more tailored treatment approach, possibly including a specialized wound ointment.
3. Duration of Treatment: When it comes to the application of topical steroids or any medicated ointment, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice. Generally, the use of topical steroids should be limited to avoid potential side effects, such as skin thinning or delayed healing. If the redness persists but does not worsen, you might consider tapering off the medication gradually rather than stopping abruptly. For example, you could reduce the frequency of application (from twice a day to once a day) before discontinuing completely. Always consult your physician before making changes to your treatment regimen.
In addition to addressing your specific questions, it’s important to consider some general advice for managing frenulum and glans issues:
- Hygiene: Continue to maintain good hygiene practices. Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and ensure it is thoroughly dried afterward. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants that could exacerbate the condition.
- Avoiding Irritation: During the healing process, it may be wise to avoid activities that could further irritate the area, such as vigorous sexual activity or excessive friction from clothing.
- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in symptoms. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, or if the pain worsens, seek medical attention promptly.
- Follow-Up Care: Since you have already seen a doctor, it’s crucial to follow up if symptoms do not improve. Persistent inflammation may require further evaluation to rule out underlying conditions such as infections or skin disorders.
In summary, while minor injuries to the frenulum can lead to inflammation of the glans, proper care and monitoring are key to recovery. Use the prescribed medications as directed, maintain good hygiene, and consult your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. With appropriate care, most cases resolve without complications.
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