Glans Skin Issues: Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Glans Skin Issues: Symptoms and Concerns

Jimmy： Hello, regarding your condition, I believe it is just a common infection issue, most likely a fungal infection. <br>Check your glans to see if there is sometimes a white film that can be peeled off with your fingers after a few days. <br>Usually, there will be some itching

Glans skin

I initially noticed small bumps on the glans and redness of the glans.
After consulting a specialist in sexually transmitted diseases, I was told it was just pearly penile papules.
However, I recently discovered that when the glans is not engorged, the skin appears very wrinkled and seems moist on the surface.
But after retracting the foreskin and allowing it to air dry, the skin becomes very dry and appears wrinkled.
When engorged, there are no issues, but after returning to its normal state, there is a small amount of white flaking.
Additionally, while urinating, I notice slight swelling at the right side of the glans' opening.
Could this be balanitis? There is no pain or itching.
I have tried cleaning with a tissue after masturbation and then put my pants back on.
After spending a day out and only showering afterward, the redness increased.
I apologize for the many issues!

jimmy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/27

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Jimmy: Hello, regarding your condition, I believe it is just a common infection issue, most likely a fungal infection.
Check your glans to see if there is sometimes a white film that can be peeled off with your fingers after a few days.
Usually, there will be some itching and a little bit of pain.
Typically, if left untreated, most people will recover on their own within 3-5 days.
In a minority of cases, symptoms persist and require topical ointment.
The most likely cause is overly aggressive local hygiene, meaning the use of harsh cleaning products or bathing in water that is too hot, which can strip the natural oils from the glans, allowing fungi to invade.
Local swelling of the glans, as long as it is not painful or itchy, should not be related to an infection.
Recommendations: 1.
For local cleaning, using plain water is sufficient.
If you really want to use soap, it’s best to choose something like Dove, which claims to have moisturizing properties.
2.
If you feel dryness, you can apply some baby oil or lotion after cleaning.
Urology Department Chief, Hsu Wei-Kai, responding on behalf of the Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2005/05/27

More Info

When it comes to glans skin issues, such as the symptoms you've described, it's important to approach the situation with a comprehensive understanding of potential causes and treatments. The symptoms you mentioned, including small bumps on the glans, redness, and changes in skin texture, can be concerning but are often manageable with the right care.

Firstly, the small bumps you initially observed could indeed be pearly penile papules, which are common and benign. However, the subsequent symptoms of dryness, wrinkling, and the presence of white flakes could indicate a few different conditions. One possibility is that you are experiencing a form of dermatitis, which can occur due to irritation, friction, or even an allergic reaction to products used in the genital area. The dryness and wrinkling of the skin when not engorged could be a sign of dehydration of the skin, which is not uncommon in colder, drier climates.

The fact that you mentioned the skin appears moist when the glans is engorged suggests that there may be a natural response of the skin to increased blood flow, which can temporarily improve its appearance. However, the dryness and flaking afterward could indicate that the skin is not retaining moisture effectively, possibly due to environmental factors or lack of proper hydration.

Regarding the slight swelling you noticed at the urethral opening during urination, this could be related to a mild form of balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans. Balanitis can occur due to various factors, including poor hygiene, irritants, or infections. Since you mentioned that there is no pain or itching, it may not be severe, but it is still worth monitoring.

Here are some recommendations for managing your symptoms:
1. Maintain Hygiene: Ensure that you clean the area gently with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may irritate the sensitive skin of the glans.

2. Moisturize: Consider using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer specifically designed for sensitive skin. Applying a moisturizer after bathing can help retain moisture and prevent dryness.

3. Avoid Irritants: Be cautious with any products you apply to the genital area, including lotions, creams, and even laundry detergents that may come into contact with your underwear.
4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. If the redness, dryness, or any other symptoms worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination.

5. Consult a Specialist: If you continue to experience symptoms or if you have concerns about potential infections or other conditions, it may be beneficial to see a dermatologist or a urologist who specializes in genital skin issues.

6. Hydration: Ensure you are adequately hydrated, as overall skin health can be affected by your hydration levels.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate a serious condition, they warrant attention and care. By maintaining proper hygiene, moisturizing, and avoiding irritants, you can help manage your symptoms effectively. If issues persist, seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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