Red Spots on the Glans: Causes and Recovery Time

Red spots on the glans penis?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
Recently, I have noticed some red spots on my glans, which are a bit itchy, and now there are two or three small red dots that hurt a little when touched.
I remember seeing your responses to other inquiries, mentioning that this could be due to a fungal infection or irritation from chemical substances.
I did use soap to clean my glans, and I now realize that this method is not advisable.
I would like to know how long it typically takes for the body's immune system to completely eliminate these symptoms.
I also have phimosis, and touching those red spots causes sharp pain.
If the cleaning was inadequate due to this issue, will it make the recovery of those red spots more difficult? Additionally, Dr.
Hsu, do you spend a lot of time online? I have seen that you are one of the most thorough doctors in your responses, and I really appreciate your previous answers to my questions.

Xiao Wen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/07/31

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, generally speaking, if everything goes well, the discoloration of these lesions will deepen in about 2-3 days and will completely disappear in approximately 1-2 weeks.
I recommend that when cleaning, you use cold water.
Avoid using cleaning products; if it is really dirty, you can use a small amount of diluted body wash.
After gently cleaning, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water immediately.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai
Director, Urology Department
Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2007/07/31

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms with red spots on the glans of your penis, along with itching and pain. Let's break down your situation and provide some insights into potential causes, recovery time, and management strategies.

Understanding the Symptoms
The red spots and itching you describe could be indicative of several conditions, including:
1. Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can cause red, itchy spots on the glans. This is often exacerbated by moisture and can be related to poor hygiene or the use of irritating soaps.

2. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, which can be caused by infections (bacterial or fungal), irritants (like soaps or detergents), or underlying skin conditions.

3. Contact Dermatitis: If you've used soaps or other products that irritate the sensitive skin of the glans, this could lead to an allergic reaction or irritation.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs can present with red spots or lesions, along with other symptoms.

Recovery Time
The recovery time for these conditions can vary significantly based on the underlying cause:
- Fungal Infections: If treated appropriately with antifungal medications, symptoms can improve within a few days to a week. However, if the infection is recurrent, it may take longer to resolve completely.

- Balanitis: Treatment may involve topical steroids or antifungal creams, and recovery can take a week or two, depending on the severity and the cause.

- Contact Dermatitis: Avoiding the irritant and using topical corticosteroids can lead to improvement within a few days.

- STIs: If an STI is diagnosed, treatment will depend on the specific infection, and recovery times can vary.

Importance of Hygiene
You mentioned that you have a long foreskin, which can trap moisture and bacteria, potentially leading to infections. Proper hygiene is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Gentle Cleaning: Use warm water to clean the area gently. Avoid harsh soaps, as they can irritate the skin further.
- Drying: Ensure the area is thoroughly dried after washing, as moisture can promote fungal growth.

- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of scented soaps, lotions, or other products that may irritate the skin.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, discharge, or increased pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and possibly take a swab for laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

Conclusion
In summary, the red spots on your glans could be due to several factors, including fungal infections, balanitis, or contact dermatitis. Recovery time can vary, but with proper hygiene and treatment, many conditions can resolve within a week or two. If you have concerns about your symptoms or if they do not improve, please seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Thank you for your kind words, and I hope you find relief soon!

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