Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Treatment Options

Q: Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Treatment Options

Hello： If the condition improves with medication but recurs after stopping, you should return for a follow-up. <br>It's essential to strictly adhere to lifestyle precautions, focusing on cleanliness and dryness. <br>Maintain a light diet, wear loose-fitting underwear, and avoid h

Red spots on the glans?

Hello doctor, last November I noticed red spots on my glans that were not painful or itchy, but they gradually increased in number.
I went to the hospital and was prescribed Four Benefit Cream, which I applied for about a week.
It seemed to improve, so I stopped using it.
However, after about a week, the red spots reappeared, this time accompanied by itching and white discharge.
I started applying the medication again, and after a week of treatment, I continued for another week just to be safe before stopping.

After some time, the rash returned, but this time it was not painful or itchy and there was no white discharge.
I continued applying the medication, and eventually, the rash faded, becoming more noticeable only during engorgement.
Now, I have a persistent light rash that has not completely disappeared.
Since the medication did not seem effective, I temporarily stopped using it.
Currently, I have noticed an increase in the number and prominence of the red spots over the past few days, but they are still not painful or itchy.
During this time, I have refrained from masturbation, and after showering, I dry myself thoroughly.
After using the restroom, I always use toilet paper to dry off, and when possible, I rinse with clean water.
I have not engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse; I have only had sexual relations with my girlfriend, and we always used condoms.
However, I have also stopped sexual activity since the onset of the symptoms.

There is no family history of diabetes, and I am not overweight.
I usually have my foreskin covering the glans and have not undergone circumcision, but I can retract it during engorgement.
Aside from the increased number of red spots, I do not have any significant discomfort, but I am unsure how to resolve this issue.
Should I return for a follow-up appointment? Is it possible that I have applied too much medication, or could this be an unresolved case of balanitis?

Mr. M, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/05

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If the condition improves with medication but recurs after stopping, you should return for a follow-up.
It's essential to strictly adhere to lifestyle precautions, focusing on cleanliness and dryness.
Maintain a light diet, wear loose-fitting underwear, and avoid high water temperatures during bathing.
Moisture under the foreskin can easily lead to glans inflammation and recurrence.
Your situation may indicate that the treatment was stopped before complete recovery.
When applying medication, a thin layer is sufficient.
If there is improvement, you may apply the medication once a day.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/01/05

More Info

The presence of red spots on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning, especially when accompanied by changes in symptoms such as itching or the appearance of white discharge. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing recurrent episodes of these red spots, which may indicate a condition known as balanitis, an inflammation of the glans.
Balanitis can be caused by several factors, including infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or underlying skin conditions (like eczema or psoriasis). In your case, the intermittent nature of the symptoms, along with the response to topical treatments, suggests that there may be an infectious component or an irritant that is exacerbating the condition.

1. Possible Causes:
- Infections: Fungal infections, particularly Candida (yeast), are common causes of balanitis, especially if there is a history of moisture or irritation. Bacterial infections can also occur, particularly if there is a breach in the skin barrier.

- Irritation: Frequent washing or the use of certain soaps can lead to irritation, which may manifest as redness and spots.
- Skin Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or eczema can also cause similar symptoms, leading to red spots or patches on the glans.

2. Treatment Options:
- Topical Treatments: You mentioned using a cream (四益乳膏) which may contain antifungal or antibacterial properties. Continuing with a topical antifungal or antibacterial cream may be beneficial, but it’s essential to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider.

- Avoid Irritants: Ensure that you are using mild, unscented soaps and avoid any products that may irritate the sensitive skin of the glans.

- Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good hygiene is crucial. Gently wash the area with water and avoid excessive scrubbing. After washing, ensure the area is thoroughly dried to prevent moisture buildup, which can promote fungal growth.

3. When to Seek Further Medical Attention:
- If the red spots persist or worsen despite treatment, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, swelling, or discharge, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
- A dermatologist or urologist may perform a physical examination and possibly take a culture of the area to identify any underlying infections.

4. Potential for Overuse of Medication:
- Overuse of topical medications can sometimes lead to skin irritation or a rebound effect, where the condition worsens after stopping the medication. It’s important to use medications as directed and not to self-medicate excessively.

5. Considerations for Sexual Health:
- Since you mentioned that you have been practicing safe sex, it is less likely that a sexually transmitted infection is the cause. However, if symptoms persist, it may be worth discussing with your partner and considering testing for STIs, even if you have been using protection.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not currently be causing significant discomfort, the recurrence of red spots on the glans warrants further investigation to rule out any underlying conditions. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough examination and tailored treatment plan. Regular follow-ups can help monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

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