Redness and Discomfort in the Foreskin Area

Q: Redness and Discomfort in the Foreskin Area

Hello： 1. Inflammation and phimosis are most likely. 2. It will not happen. 3. It needs to be pushed back. Wishing you good health.

Redness on the inner side of the foreskin?

1.
The inner side of the foreskin is red, and the red area has a wrinkled, coffee-colored appearance.
It also seems to be darkened, with slight peeling.
When the foreskin is retracted, there is a ring of redness.
Additionally, the area just below the coronal sulcus looks like it is constricted, resembling a rubber band.
Note: This condition has not improved for over a month, and I have not applied any medication.
I visited the doctor today, the 15th, and he prescribed me a topical ointment (Miconazole).
Based on your professional opinion, what do you think my symptoms indicate?
2.
When I visited the urologist today, the doctor asked me to lie down on the examination table.
I am concerned that my genitalia and glans may have come into contact with the examination table, and I am worried about the possibility of contracting other infections, such as HPV, HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea, especially since there were over 100 patients before me, most of whom were elderly.
I really want to know the answer to this concern.
3.
Since I only have an issue with the foreskin, after applying the ointment, should I retract the foreskin back up? (Because both the glans and the coronal sulcus are fine, I am worried that the ointment might irritate the glans and cause inflammation.) I would greatly appreciate your assistance in answering these questions.
Thank you very much.

Ye Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1.
Inflammation and phimosis are most likely.
2.
It will not happen.
3.
It needs to be pushed back.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/02/17

More Info

Understanding the symptoms you are experiencing in the foreskin area is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Based on your description, it seems you are dealing with a condition that may involve inflammation or irritation of the foreskin (also known as balanitis or posthitis). Here’s a detailed breakdown of your concerns:
1. Symptoms of Redness and Discomfort: The redness and the appearance of the skin (coffee-colored, wrinkled, and slightly peeling) suggest that there may be an inflammatory process occurring. This could be due to several factors, including irritation from hygiene products, infections (bacterial or fungal), or even a reaction to certain foods or medications. The fact that it has persisted for over a month without improvement indicates that it may require more than just topical treatment. It is good that you have consulted a doctor and received a prescription for a topical ointment (美康藥膏, which I assume is a corticosteroid or antifungal cream). It’s essential to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the application of this medication.

2. Concerns About Infection: Your worry about potential infections (such as HPV, HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea) from contact with the examination table is understandable, especially if you have been in a setting with many patients. However, the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from a non-intimate contact surface is generally low. STIs are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, and while some pathogens can survive on surfaces, the likelihood of transmission in this manner is minimal. If you have concerns about STIs, it may be prudent to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can recommend appropriate testing if necessary.

3. Application of Medication: Regarding the application of the ointment, it is typically advised to apply the medication directly to the affected area. If your doctor has instructed you to apply it to the foreskin, you should do so, but be cautious about applying it to areas that do not require treatment. If the glans (the head of the penis) and the corona (the ridge of the glans) are not affected, you can avoid applying the ointment there to prevent unnecessary irritation. After applying the medication, gently retract the foreskin back to its normal position to ensure that the ointment remains in contact with the affected area.

Additional Considerations:
- Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Ensure that the area is clean and dry before applying any medication. Avoid using harsh soaps or products that may further irritate the skin.

- Follow-Up: If your symptoms do not improve after using the prescribed ointment for the recommended duration, or if they worsen, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may need to reassess your condition and consider other treatment options or further investigations.

- Potential Causes: Conditions such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), bacterial infections, or even skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis could be contributing to your symptoms. A thorough examination and possibly a culture or biopsy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, it is essential to follow your doctor's advice and monitor your condition closely. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. Your health and comfort are paramount, and addressing these issues promptly can lead to better outcomes.

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