Painful, Red, and Cracked Penis: Causes and Treatments

Penile pain, redness, swelling, and skin breakdown?

Hello doctor, during the early days of my military service, after training at Chengkungling, I returned home and noticed a cracked wound at the junction of my glans and foreskin, accompanied by some discharge.
Initially, I thought it was due to lack of ventilation and not drying properly, so I did not seek medical attention.
After some time, I noticed that my glans and scrotum felt like they had a thick keratinized layer; although I could feel them when I touched, it felt like there was a thin layer separating them.
Then, I started to experience peeling skin along with the wound, but there was not much discharge or foul odor.
Currently, my glans and foreskin are red and swollen, and I experience sharp pain during masturbation.
I have been applying Meladerm ointment...
Thank you, doctor.

W, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/17

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, you may have a fungal infection.
It is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again so we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to visit a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/10/17

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a concerning condition involving your penis, which has led to pain, redness, and cracking. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for these symptoms, and understanding them can help guide you toward appropriate treatment.

Possible Causes
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can be caused by infections (bacterial or fungal), poor hygiene, or irritants. Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, and sometimes discharge.

2. Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis can occur due to irritation from soaps, lotions, or other products. Allergic reactions can also lead to similar symptoms.

3. Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can cause redness, itching, and cracking of the skin. This is more common in warm, moist environments.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs can present with symptoms similar to what you're describing, including pain, redness, and discharge. It's important to rule these out, especially if you've had unprotected sexual contact.

5. Psoriasis or Other Skin Conditions: Skin disorders can also affect the genital area, leading to thickened skin, scaling, and discomfort.

Recommended Treatments
1. Maintain Hygiene: Ensure that you are washing the area gently with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may irritate the skin further.

2. Topical Treatments: You mentioned using a topical ointment (美樂得蒙軟膏). If this is a hydrocortisone cream or similar, it may help reduce inflammation. However, if you suspect a fungal infection, an antifungal cream may be more appropriate.

3. Avoid Irritants: Identify and avoid any products that may be causing irritation, including soaps, lotions, or even certain fabrics.

4. Moisturize: If the skin is dry and cracking, using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer may help. However, be cautious not to apply anything that could worsen the irritation.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the persistence of your symptoms and the potential for infection or other underlying issues, it is crucial to see a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination, possibly take swabs for testing, and provide a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

6. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have a clear diagnosis, it may be wise to avoid sexual activity, including masturbation, to prevent further irritation or potential transmission of an infection.

When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience severe pain, fever, or if the redness and swelling worsen, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious infection that requires immediate treatment.

Conclusion
While it may be tempting to self-diagnose or treat based on initial symptoms, the genital area is sensitive, and conditions can vary widely. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Don't hesitate to reach out for help, as addressing these symptoms early can prevent complications and promote healing.

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