Painful Growths Near the Genitals: When to Seek Help

Q: Painful Growths Near the Genitals: When to Seek Help

Hello Isabella： Based on your written description, it is currently difficult to ascertain your specific medical condition. <br>The main difference between dermatological diseases and internal medicine diseases is that "a physician's visual examination is essential." It is often c

Concerning issues?

Hello, Dr.
Hong: I have a question I would like to ask you.
A couple of days ago, I noticed a small spot appearing next to my genital area (right next to the labia minora).
It was a bit painful, but I thought it would go away in a couple of days, so I didn’t pay much attention to it.
However, the next day it became increasingly swollen, and when I woke up the following morning and wiped after urinating, it hurt a lot.
It hasn’t subsided in the past two days and is now about the size of half a pinky finger.
It causes a dull ache when I sit, and it’s very painful to touch.
I’ve been suspecting it might be a pimple since I occasionally get similar pimples on my face, but I’m really worried if it is indeed a pimple.
Can pimples appear in that area? And can they swell up that much? It looks red, with a soft center, but the skin around the center feels a bit hard.
By the way, during those two days when I noticed the symptoms, I happened to stay up very late (around three or four in the morning) and ate a lot of cornflakes before bed.
I’m not sure if that could have caused this issue due to increased heat in my body.
I’m really worried.
Will it heal on its own? Do I need to see a doctor? Thank you very much for your clarification; I really appreciate it!

Isabella, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/02

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng reply Dermatology

Hello Isabella: Based on your written description, it is currently difficult to ascertain your specific medical condition.
The main difference between dermatological diseases and internal medicine diseases is that "a physician's visual examination is essential." It is often challenging to describe conditions accurately in writing.
However, I recommend that you promptly visit a public hospital in your county or city and consult with a dermatologist.
I believe the physicians at our department will be happy to provide you with a diagnosis and treatment.
Thank you for using "Taiwan e-Hospital" to ask your question; "Taiwan e-Hospital" cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2005/10/02

More Info

When it comes to painful growths near the genitals, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. The symptoms you describe—a painful, swollen area near the labia that has increased in size and discomfort—could be indicative of several conditions, and it is crucial to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Firstly, it is important to understand that while acne can occur on various parts of the body, including the genital area, the characteristics of the growth you describe raise some concerns. Acne typically presents as small, raised bumps that may be red and inflamed but usually do not grow to the size you mentioned (about the size of a pinky finger). The fact that it is painful, swollen, and has a hard area surrounding it suggests that it may not be a simple acne lesion.

Possible conditions that could cause similar symptoms include:
1. Folliculitis: This is an infection of the hair follicles that can occur in the genital area. It can present as red, swollen bumps that may be painful and tender to the touch.

2. Bartholin's Cyst: The Bartholin glands are located on either side of the vaginal opening and can become blocked, leading to the formation of a cyst. If the cyst becomes infected, it can cause significant pain and swelling.

3. Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can occur due to infection. It can be painful, swollen, and may require drainage by a healthcare professional.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus: Genital herpes can cause painful blisters or sores in the genital area. If you have a history of herpes or if you suspect this could be the case, it is important to seek medical attention.

5. Other Skin Conditions: Conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa or even sexually transmitted infections (STIs) could also present with similar symptoms.

Given the pain, swelling, and the fact that the growth has not resolved on its own, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination, possibly conduct tests, and provide a definitive diagnosis. They may also prescribe antibiotics if there is an infection or recommend other treatments based on the underlying cause.

In the meantime, avoid touching or squeezing the area, as this can exacerbate the condition or lead to further infection. Maintaining good hygiene and wearing loose-fitting clothing can help alleviate some discomfort.

Regarding your concern about diet and sleep patterns, while poor sleep and certain foods can influence skin conditions, they are unlikely to be the sole cause of a painful growth in this area. Stress and lack of sleep can affect your immune system, potentially making you more susceptible to infections, but it is essential to focus on addressing the current issue first.

In conclusion, while it is natural to feel anxious about new and painful symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.

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