Redness on the Glans: Causes and Treatments

Redness of the glans?

Doctor: Hello! Last Thursday after a DIY procedure, I noticed a red area on the glans skin near the right leg, approximately the size of half of my pinky finger's first joint.
It is irregular (roughly circular), painless, and not itchy, with a color ranging between bright red and dark red.
The redness becomes particularly noticeable during an erection.
In the morning or after a regular day, it tends to return to a color closer to my normal skin tone or a lighter shade.
Additionally, I have not engaged in sexual activity for over four months.
Based on this description, what condition might this be indicative of? Furthermore, I have been applying ointments for eczema and swelling.
I usually clean the area with medicated soap.
Thank you!

Mr. Y, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/10/31

Dr. Yang Zhiya reply Dermatology

It is recommended to visit an outpatient clinic for a consultation with a physician to determine the appropriate treatment method.

Reply Date: 2011/10/31

More Info

The redness you are experiencing on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning, especially when it appears suddenly and has specific characteristics. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for this condition, and understanding them can help guide appropriate treatment.

1. Irritation or Allergic Reaction: One common cause of localized redness on the glans is irritation or an allergic reaction to products used for cleaning or personal hygiene. If you have recently changed soaps, lotions, or other products, this could lead to contact dermatitis. The fact that you mentioned using a medicated soap could also be a factor, as some ingredients may cause irritation in sensitive areas.

2. Infection: Another possibility is a mild infection, such as a yeast infection (candidiasis) or a bacterial infection. These infections can sometimes present as redness, swelling, or changes in color of the skin. While you mentioned that the area is not painful or itchy, infections can sometimes have subtle presentations, especially if they are mild.

3. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to redness and irritation. Since you mentioned using a cream for eczema, it is possible that the redness is related to this condition. Eczema can cause flare-ups that may be more pronounced during certain activities, such as during an erection.

4. Physiological Changes: The increased visibility of redness during an erection is normal due to increased blood flow to the area. This physiological response can make any underlying condition more noticeable.

5. Other Causes: Less commonly, conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or lichen sclerosus could be considered, especially if the redness persists or changes over time.

Recommendations:
- Observation: Since the redness fades to a more normal color when not erect, it may be beneficial to monitor the area for any changes over the next few days. If the redness persists, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms (such as pain, itching, or discharge), it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

- Avoid Irritants: Continue using gentle, non-irritating soaps and avoid any products that may exacerbate the condition. If you suspect that a particular product is causing irritation, discontinue its use.

- Topical Treatments: If you are already using a cream for eczema, ensure that it is appropriate for use in sensitive areas. If the redness does not improve, consult your healthcare provider about the possibility of using a different topical treatment.

- Consult a Specialist: If the condition does not improve or if you have concerns about the nature of the redness, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist or a urologist. They can provide a thorough examination and may perform tests to rule out infections or other conditions.

In summary, while the redness you are experiencing could be due to a variety of factors, careful observation and avoidance of potential irritants are key initial steps. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Redness Around the Glans: Causes and Treatments

I had a circumcision, and initially, I noticed that the glans sulcus, the groove near the head of the penis, was red. It didn't improve, and soon both sides of the glans sulcus became red as well. I went to a clinic, and they diagnosed me with balanitis. I applied a topical ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If this situation occurs, it is mostly caused by DIY methods. Continuous treatment should be maintained. Additionally, if there has been any unsafe sexual behavior, a blood test should be conducted during the follow-up visit. If there is a family history of diabetes, blood...

Understanding and Managing Glans Inflammation: Causes and Treatments

A few months ago, I noticed red spots on my glans. After researching online, I came to the conclusion that it might be balanitis, possibly due to an infection or inflammation caused by the foreskin covering the glans. I was advised to keep the foreskin retracted, which seemed to ...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, you may have balanitis. The cause might be different from what you think: you may believe it is due to poor hygiene, but based on the photos, I believe it is caused by "over-cleaning and improper cleaning." Recommendations: 1. Clean the glans several times a day....

Red Glans: Causes, Treatment Options, and When to See a Doctor

Hello Doctor: I recently visited the hospital for an examination, and my symptoms included redness of the glans and small white papules, which are indicative of a fungal infection. I applied Clotrimazole cream, but there has been no improvement, and I have already switched medica...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Please return for follow-up treatment.

Understanding Redness and Swelling of the Glans After Sexual Activity

I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing these symptoms. It sounds like you may be dealing with a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis). This can be caused by various factors, including irritation from friction, aller...

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
It is possible that exposure to an allergen has caused an allergic reaction, or it could be balanitis. Online consultations cannot replace an in-person examination and physical assessment by a physician. If there is a medical condition, it is still advisable to seek care at a med...