Pain and Swelling in the Penis: Causes and Treatments

Pain upon pressure on the foreskin and swelling of the glans?

I have been experiencing pain in a specific area of my foreskin for about a month.
I have seen many doctors, and there has been slight improvement recently.
However, I may have used the wrong medication (a doctor gave me a bottle of what he said was alcohol to apply to the foreskin).
I poured the alcohol onto a piece of toilet paper and pressed it against the painful area of the foreskin for about 10 minutes.
During the process, I felt a burning sensation and warmth.
Afterwards, it became swollen.
When I woke up in the morning, it felt like it had turned into a blister.
Two days later, the blister burst.
On the sixth day, I saw two dermatologists who said it might be an erosive wound, but the glans was slightly red and swollen.
One of the doctors arranged for a gonorrhea swab test.
The nurse vigorously rubbed the swab up and down the urethra, which was very painful.
After that, urination felt very uncomfortable, and experiencing pain is normal, right? Now the entire glans and the injured foreskin look red and swollen.
I'm very worried.
The doctor only prescribed an antibacterial ointment.
Sorry for the long message.
Thank you for your time.

Huli, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/14

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Hello, under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to use alcohol on the perineal area, as it may cause burns.
Additionally, your initial symptoms did not appear to be indicative of gonorrhea.
I have not been involved in the subsequent treatment and developments, so I am unable to provide you with advice.

Reply Date: 2021/01/14

More Info

Understanding pain and swelling in the penis, particularly in the foreskin area, can be concerning and uncomfortable. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing localized pain in the foreskin for about a month, which has led to swelling and the formation of a blister after applying alcohol to the affected area. This situation has understandably caused you distress, especially with the additional symptoms of redness and discomfort during urination.

Possible Causes
1. Injury or Irritation: The initial pain could have been due to an injury or irritation from friction, improper hygiene, or an allergic reaction to a substance. The application of alcohol, while it may have been intended as a disinfectant, can cause irritation and dryness, leading to further inflammation and blistering.

2. Infection: The redness and swelling of the glans (the head of the penis) and foreskin could indicate an infection. Common infections in this area include:
- Balanitis: Inflammation of the glans, often due to poor hygiene, irritants, or infections (bacterial or fungal).

- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Conditions like gonorrhea or herpes can cause similar symptoms. The swab test you underwent was likely to rule out such infections.

3. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort.

Treatment Options
1. Antibiotic Ointments: Since you have been prescribed an antibacterial ointment, it is essential to apply it as directed. This can help treat any bacterial infection that may be present.

2. Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using alcohol or any harsh chemicals on the affected area, as these can exacerbate irritation. Instead, use mild soap and water for cleaning.

3. Topical Steroids: If inflammation persists, a doctor may prescribe a mild topical steroid to reduce swelling and redness. However, this should only be done under medical supervision.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Ensure you follow the recommended dosages.

5. Follow-Up Care: It is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider, especially if symptoms do not improve or worsen. If the redness and swelling persist, further evaluation may be necessary, including additional tests or referrals to a urologist or dermatologist.

When to Seek Immediate Care
- If you experience severe pain, fever, or discharge from the penis.

- If the swelling worsens or spreads.

- If you have difficulty urinating or notice blood in your urine.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are concerning and warrant careful attention. It is essential to follow your doctor's advice and complete any prescribed treatments. Avoid self-treating with alcohol or other irritants, as this can lead to further complications. If you have ongoing concerns or if your symptoms do not improve, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more serious complications.

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