Glans and Foreskin Issues: Causes and Solutions

Q: Glans and Foreskin Issues: Causes and Solutions

Hello： It is recommended that you seek medical attention. <br>Additionally, if you engage in sexual activity, please use protection. <br>If your parents have diabetes, it is advisable to have your blood sugar tested. <br>Wear loose-fitting underwear. <br>Wishing you good health.

Issues related to the glans and foreskin?

Hello, doctor.
First, let me show you the images to assess the condition: https://lurl.cc/6YglA.
The first image shows a laceration that occurs whenever there is a slight erection.
The second image shows the normal state, which was not like this before.
It feels like there is some inflammation.
Prior to this, I was unsure if it was balanitis, as the glans often had white flakes (despite regular cleaning), and it even got worse to the point of having an odor.
Later, when I applied a topical cream, it seemed to worsen instead.
The next day, the glans had a white film that persisted for almost a year.
Occasionally, it became severe enough that I had to gently rub it off with water; if I didn't, it would accumulate and look very concerning.
The frequency of this issue is not very high, occurring every two to three days, and masturbation seemed to exacerbate the symptoms.
Eventually, I saw you, and I am unsure if this is related to the thinning of the stratum corneum, which might have led to the laceration (as shown in the first image) making the frenulum more prone to tearing.
This was not an issue before, and I maintain hygiene daily.
What do you think, doctor? This is quite troubling for me.
🥲

Nǐ hǎ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/07

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is recommended that you seek medical attention.
Additionally, if you engage in sexual activity, please use protection.
If your parents have diabetes, it is advisable to have your blood sugar tested.
Wear loose-fitting underwear.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/04/07

More Info

Understanding glans and foreskin issues can be quite complex, especially when it comes to conditions like balanitis (inflammation of the glans) and phimosis (tight foreskin). Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems that you might be experiencing a combination of these issues, which can lead to discomfort and other complications.

Causes of Glans and Foreskin Issues
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) that can be caused by various factors, including poor hygiene, infections (bacterial or fungal), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), and skin conditions (like eczema or psoriasis). The white flakes you mentioned could be a sign of a fungal infection, such as candidiasis, which is common in warm, moist areas.

2. Phimosis: This condition occurs when the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans. It can lead to pain during erections, as you've experienced with the tearing. Phimosis can be caused by scarring, inflammation, or simply anatomical factors.

3. Skin Conditions: Conditions like lichen sclerosus can cause white patches and thinning of the skin, leading to increased sensitivity and tearing. This could explain the changes you've noticed over time.

4. Hygiene Practices: While you mentioned that you maintain good hygiene, excessive cleaning or the use of harsh soaps can irritate the sensitive skin of the glans and foreskin, potentially exacerbating the problem.

Solutions and Treatments
1. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter antifungal creams may help if a fungal infection is suspected. However, if you have been using a product like "美康" (which I assume is a topical treatment), and it has worsened your symptoms, it might be best to discontinue its use and consult a healthcare professional.

2. Gentle Hygiene: Continue to clean the area gently with warm water. Avoid using soaps that contain fragrances or harsh chemicals. After washing, ensure the area is dried properly to prevent moisture buildup.

3. Consult a Specialist: Given the chronic nature of your symptoms and the discomfort you're experiencing, it would be wise to consult a urologist or dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a biopsy if necessary, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

4. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that certain products or activities (like masturbation) are aggravating your condition, consider reducing their frequency or changing your approach. For instance, using a lubricant during masturbation may help reduce friction and irritation.

5. Potential Circumcision: In cases of severe phimosis or recurrent balanitis, circumcision may be recommended as a definitive treatment. This procedure removes the foreskin, which can alleviate the issues associated with tight foreskin and recurrent infections.

Prevention
To prevent further issues, consider the following:
- Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider can help monitor any changes in your condition and catch potential issues early.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and proper hydration, can support overall skin health.

- Education: Understanding your body and recognizing early signs of potential issues can help you seek treatment before conditions worsen.

In conclusion, while glans and foreskin issues can be distressing, they are often manageable with the right approach. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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