Redness on the Glans: Is It Balanitis?

Is it balanitis?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about something.
About 2 to 3 weeks ago, I noticed several small red spots of varying sizes on the skin of my glans, but they are all small and there are no symptoms.
They are not raised and nothing is growing on them, just red.
I also found 3 to 4 deep red spots on my foreskin that look like wounds, but they feel smooth to the touch and are not painful.
Again, there are no symptoms, just a deep red color.
I tried to squeeze them and got a tiny amount of white substance out, similar to squeezing a pimple, but it was very minimal.
The skin on my foreskin looks a bit dry, as this has been going on for a week or two.
Could you please tell me what this might be? Is it due to the dryness of winter? I have researched online and I feel it might be balanitis.
Is this balanitis? Since I am studying abroad, I am unsure how to handle this.
I have brought some strong topical ointment, but I am hesitant to use it without guidance.
Is there a way for me to buy medication to resolve this? Should I consider buying erythromycin, or perhaps Vaseline or Mentholatum?

Xiao Kai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/11

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, it is very likely that you have balanitis.
As for the care of the glans, please refer to the advice I provided to other users.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Responses on the internet should only be considered as references; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from the Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and is answered by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2015/12/11

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms regarding the redness on your glans and foreskin. Based on your description, it is possible that you may be dealing with a condition known as balanitis, which is an inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis). However, it is essential to consider other potential causes as well.

Understanding Balanitis
Balanitis can occur due to various reasons, including:
1. Infections: This can be caused by bacteria, fungi (like Candida), or sexually transmitted infections.

2. Irritation: This may arise from soaps, lotions, or other products that come into contact with the genital area.

3. Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning can lead to the accumulation of smegma, which can irritate the skin.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also cause redness and irritation in the genital area.

Symptoms and Diagnosis
You mentioned that the redness is not accompanied by pain, discharge, or other symptoms, which is somewhat reassuring. The presence of small white spots that you described as being similar to "popping a pimple" could be smegma or possibly a sign of a mild infection. The smooth texture of the affected areas is also a positive sign, as painful lesions or sores could indicate a more severe condition.

Treatment Options
1. Hygiene: Ensure that you maintain good hygiene by gently washing the area with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh soaps or products that could irritate the skin further.

2. Topical Treatments:
- Hydrocortisone Cream: This can help reduce inflammation and redness. However, it should be used sparingly and not for extended periods.

- Antifungal Cream: If you suspect a fungal infection, an over-the-counter antifungal cream may be beneficial.

- Moisturizers: Applying a gentle moisturizer like Vaseline or a hypoallergenic lotion can help with dryness.

3. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that certain soaps, lotions, or even laundry detergents are causing irritation, try to eliminate them from your routine.

4. Over-the-Counter Medications: While you mentioned considering antibiotics like erythromycin, it's crucial to use antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional, as inappropriate use can lead to resistance and other complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If the redness persists, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, swelling, or discharge, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may take a swab to determine if there is an underlying infection that requires specific treatment.

Conclusion
While it is possible that you may be experiencing balanitis, self-diagnosis can be tricky, especially when it comes to conditions involving the genital area. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you are unsure about the symptoms or if they do not improve with basic hygiene and over-the-counter treatments. In the meantime, focus on maintaining good hygiene and avoiding irritants, and consider using gentle topical treatments as needed.

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