Urethral Swelling: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Swelling of the urethral opening?

Hello doctor, I had unprotected oral sex on November 25, and I noticed some abnormalities on the glans, but no other symptoms.
I was worried about an infection, so I visited a doctor two weeks ago.
The examination was very brief, and the doctor felt it wasn't serious.
The doctor diagnosed me with mild balanitis and prescribed a topical cream (Lifus).
However, the symptoms have not improved.
Please see the image at https://ibb.co/yYbWSzd.
Do I need to schedule a follow-up appointment, or should I just keep it clean and continue using the cream until it heals?

Xiao Hu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/23

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology

The photo is not very clear, and it's difficult to identify any abnormalities.
If the condition is severe or persists, an in-person examination may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2020/12/23

More Info

Urethral swelling can be a concerning symptom, especially following a potential exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other irritants. In your case, you mentioned experiencing unusual symptoms after engaging in unprotected oral sex, which led to a diagnosis of balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis). While your doctor prescribed a topical treatment (likely a corticosteroid or antifungal cream), you are still experiencing symptoms that have not improved.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand that while balanitis can be caused by various factors, including infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or underlying conditions (like diabetes), persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. If the treatment prescribed has not alleviated your symptoms after a reasonable period (usually a week or two), it is advisable to seek further medical advice.

Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Persistence of Symptoms: If you continue to experience swelling, redness, or discomfort despite treatment, this could indicate that the initial diagnosis may not fully capture the underlying issue. Conditions such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes, gonorrhea, or chlamydia can sometimes present with similar symptoms and may require specific treatments.

2. Follow-Up Appointment: It is generally recommended to follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. A follow-up visit allows for a more thorough examination and may include additional tests, such as swabs for culture or PCR testing, to identify any infectious agents that may not have been initially considered.

3. Self-Care Measures: In the meantime, maintaining good hygiene is crucial. Keep the area clean and dry, avoid irritants (such as scented soaps or lotions), and refrain from sexual activity until you have been evaluated again. If you are using the prescribed cream, ensure you apply it as directed.

4. Potential Complications: Untreated infections can lead to complications, including chronic inflammation, scarring, or even systemic infections. If you notice any new symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

5. Consider STI Testing: Given the nature of your exposure, it may also be prudent to undergo comprehensive STI testing, even if you do not currently exhibit symptoms of an STI. Early detection and treatment are vital for preventing complications and transmission to partners.

In conclusion, while your initial visit provided some reassurance, the lack of improvement in your symptoms suggests that further evaluation is warranted. Do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for a follow-up appointment. They can reassess your condition, possibly adjust your treatment plan, and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately. Your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking timely medical advice is always a wise decision.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Urethral Pain and Swelling: A Guide to Symptoms and Treatment

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing these symptoms. It's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Please consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
My suggestion is: You should undergo multiple outpatient examinations and treatments at the same urology department.

Understanding Urethral Swelling: Causes and Symptoms Explained

Doctor, I feel swelling in my urethra, and it hurts when I sit or get up due to pressure. I've also had a lot of discharge in the past two days, and although my period hasn't started yet, there are some blood stains on my underwear. What could be happening?

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
Your symptoms may indicate a urinary tract infection, which can include urethritis, cystitis, or pyelonephritis. Any infection of the urinary system falls under this category and is typically caused by bacteria. Generally, antibiotic treatment is required, with a course lasting b...

Understanding Urethral Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing redness and slight swelling at the urethral opening for several months (the swelling resembles lips). It is not painful and has no odor. I usually masturbate about 1 to 2 times a day. However, in the past month, I have only had morning erec...

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Please seek medical attention.

Understanding Urethral Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Hello Dr. Hsu, this is the patient Xiao Jie who asked you a question before. I previously mentioned that out of curiosity, I inserted a foreign object into my urethra, which caused slight bleeding and acute swelling at the urethral opening. Recently, I have started to feel pain i...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, you can check your urine 7 days after stopping antibiotics. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further. Answers from the internet should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should visit a medical institution ...