Red Spots on the Glans: Possible Infection from Water Activities? - Urology

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There are seven to eight red spots on the entire glans (next to the urethral opening)?


Hello, I am passionate about water activities and often go surfing at the beach, swimming in pools, or soaking in hot springs.
Recently, I noticed red spots on the glans of my penis, about seven or eight in total.
They are not painful or itchy, and I have never experienced this before.
Given my love for water activities, could it be that the water quality is contaminated and has caused an infection on my penis? I recall hearing news about someone contracting genital warts after soaking in a hot spring.
Am I possibly infected? What topical medications are available for application on the genital area? I would appreciate your guidance, doctor!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/06

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology


Hello: We recommend that you visit our Urology outpatient clinic for a personal examination by a physician before deciding whether to apply the ointment.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2005/09/06

More Info


Red spots on the glans can be concerning, especially for someone who frequently engages in water activities such as surfing, swimming, or soaking in hot springs. While the presence of red spots without pain or itching might suggest a benign condition, it is essential to consider various factors that could contribute to this symptom.

Firstly, the red spots could be a result of irritation or an allergic reaction to substances in the water, such as chlorine in pools or chemicals in hot tubs. These irritants can cause localized inflammation, leading to the appearance of red spots. Additionally, prolonged exposure to water, especially in public pools or hot springs, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and fungi in the genital area, potentially leading to infections.

Another possibility is that the red spots are indicative of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or another type of infection, such as a fungal infection. While you mentioned that there is no pain or itching, some infections can present with minimal symptoms initially. For example, conditions like balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can occur due to yeast infections or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by moisture and irritants.

Given your concern about potential infections from water activities, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely. If the red spots persist, change in appearance, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, itching, or discharge, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination and may recommend tests to rule out STIs or other infections.

In terms of treatment, over-the-counter antifungal creams may be helpful if a yeast infection is suspected. However, it is essential to avoid self-diagnosing and self-treating without professional guidance. Some topical treatments that are commonly used for genital irritation include hydrocortisone cream for inflammation or antifungal creams like clotrimazole or miconazole for yeast infections. However, these should only be used after consulting with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition.

In summary, while the red spots on the glans may not be a cause for immediate alarm, they warrant careful observation and possibly a consultation with a healthcare professional. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants, and being cautious about water quality in public facilities can help prevent future occurrences. If symptoms worsen or do not resolve, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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