Persistent Itching and Skin Irritation: What You Need to Know

Q: Persistent Itching and Skin Irritation: What You Need to Know

Cat： Hello, it is normal to have smegma on the glans every day. <br>If you are using an ointment that contains steroids for a long time, it can cause thinning of the skin and lead to itching. <br>It is recommended to discontinue the medication and simply apply petroleum jelly. <b

If you have been experiencing persistent itching and skin breakdown for a long time, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, consider the following general recommendations: 1. Moisturize: Use a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep

Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I apologize for taking up your rest time.
I had a history of balanitis two months ago, and the doctor prescribed me a topical ointment called Kafumei.
However, it felt quite sticky, and I thought it was making it difficult to clean the glans properly, so I switched to Meikang cream.
Sometimes when I feel itchy, I apply it for two to three consecutive days, and it usually improves.
However, since October, my symptoms have changed, and I feel it's different from before, which worries me.

Firstly, the itching has lasted longer; even after applying the ointment, I still feel itchy from time to time.
Secondly, I used a flashlight to examine the area closely and noticed two or three thin areas of broken skin beneath the glans.
I wonder if the broken skin is causing the itchiness.
Thirdly, I wash my foreskin with cold water daily, without using any cleansers, but every time I shower, I notice that the entire foreskin appears white, with a lot of flakes and a feeling of dirt.
Although some skin shedding seems normal, I didn't used to experience this much itching along with so much white residue.
Given that I've been experiencing daily itching for the past month despite washing thoroughly, I'm concerned if I might have contracted a sexually transmitted infection.

Māomī, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/06

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Cat: Hello, it is normal to have smegma on the glans every day.
If you are using an ointment that contains steroids for a long time, it can cause thinning of the skin and lead to itching.
It is recommended to discontinue the medication and simply apply petroleum jelly.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, who cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2012/11/06

More Info

Persistent itching and skin irritation can be distressing and may indicate an underlying condition that requires attention. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a change in your symptoms, particularly with increased itching and the presence of thin, broken skin in the area beneath the glans (the head of the penis). Here are some considerations and recommendations regarding your situation.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Infection: Given your history of balanitis (inflammation of the glans), it is possible that you may have a recurrent or new infection. Common infections in this area include yeast infections (Candida), bacterial infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The presence of white discharge or flakes can be indicative of a yeast infection, which is often accompanied by itching.

2. Irritation: The use of topical creams can sometimes lead to irritation, especially if they are used excessively or if they contain ingredients that your skin may react to. Switching from one cream to another, as you mentioned, could also contribute to irritation.

3. Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis, which can occur due to irritation from soaps, lotions, or even friction, may also be a factor. If you are using any new products or have changed your hygiene routine, this could lead to increased sensitivity and itching.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as psoriasis or eczema can also cause persistent itching and irritation. These conditions may require specific treatments to manage effectively.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist or urologist, for a thorough examination. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment based on your symptoms.

2. Avoid Irritants: Until you can see a doctor, avoid using any new creams or products that may irritate the area. Stick to gentle cleansing with water and avoid soaps or cleansers that may cause irritation.

3. Keep the Area Dry: Moisture can exacerbate fungal infections, so ensure the area is kept dry. After washing, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the appearance of any new lesions, changes in color, or discharge. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

5. Avoid Self-Medicating: While it may be tempting to continue applying topical creams, especially if they provided relief in the past, overuse can lead to further irritation or mask an underlying issue. Follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding treatment.

6. Hygiene Practices: Maintain good hygiene practices, but avoid excessive washing, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation.

Conclusion
Persistent itching and skin irritation can stem from various causes, including infections, irritants, or underlying skin conditions. Given the changes in your symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Avoid self-diagnosing or self-medicating, as this can lead to complications or worsening of your condition. By consulting a healthcare professional, you can receive tailored advice and treatment to alleviate your symptoms and address any underlying issues effectively.

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