Redness and Itching on the Foreskin: Causes and Concerns

Q: Redness and Itching on the Foreskin: Causes and Concerns

Aaron： Hello, it looks like you may have inflammation of the glans or foreskin, which is most commonly caused by excessive cleaning or the use of hot water, leading to localized injury and making it easier for infections to occur. <br>My recommendation is to use cold water for da

Issues with the foreskin!

Doctor, I have redness and swelling on my foreskin! It itches and also peels! (It feels very much like athlete's foot.) What could this be? I'm really scared! Can you give me a preliminary assessment? Thank you!

A Long, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/16

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Aaron: Hello, it looks like you may have inflammation of the glans or foreskin, which is most commonly caused by excessive cleaning or the use of hot water, leading to localized injury and making it easier for infections to occur.
My recommendation is to use cold water for daily cleaning; only use some body wash when it’s really dirty, and clean once a week at most.
Avoid using soap or hot water to clean the penis and glans.
Response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/10/16

More Info

Redness and itching on the foreskin can be concerning symptoms, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description of redness, itching, and peeling of the foreskin, several conditions could be responsible for these symptoms.

1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can extend to the foreskin. It is often caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial or fungal), or irritants. Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, itching, and sometimes a discharge. If the foreskin is not regularly cleaned, smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils) can accumulate and lead to irritation.

2. Yeast Infection: A yeast infection, particularly caused by Candida, can lead to symptoms similar to what you are experiencing. This is more common in individuals with diabetes or those who are immunocompromised. The infection can cause redness, itching, and a thick, white discharge.

3. Contact Dermatitis: This condition occurs when the skin reacts to irritants or allergens. Products such as soaps, lotions, or even latex condoms can cause irritation and lead to symptoms like redness and itching.

4. Psoriasis or Eczema: These chronic skin conditions can also affect the genital area, leading to redness, itching, and peeling skin. They are characterized by patches of inflamed skin and can be exacerbated by stress or environmental factors.

5. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs can cause symptoms in the genital area, including redness and itching. It's essential to consider this possibility, especially if you've had unprotected sexual contact.

Given your symptoms, here are some initial recommendations:
- Maintain Hygiene: Gently clean the area with mild soap and water daily. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may irritate the skin.

- Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that a product may be causing irritation, stop using it and see if your symptoms improve.

- Over-the-Counter Treatments: You may consider using antifungal creams if you suspect a yeast infection, but it's best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

- Avoid Scratching: While it may be tempting, scratching can worsen the irritation and lead to secondary infections.

- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since your symptoms are causing you concern, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They may perform a physical examination and possibly take a swab to identify any infections.

In conclusion, while there are several potential causes for the redness and itching on your foreskin, a healthcare provider will be able to give you a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It's important to address these symptoms promptly to prevent any complications and to ensure your overall health and well-being.

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