Red Swellings on the Penis: Causes and Treatments

Q: Red Swellings on the Penis: Causes and Treatments

Anonymous 2： Hello, I recommend that you first seek treatment from a physician. <br>Additionally, it is important to enhance the cleaning and maintenance of the glans to prevent recurrent episodes. <br>For cleaning methods, please refer to the responses I have provided to other u

There is swelling and redness in the coronal area of the penis?

Hello doctor, I have three red, swollen spots on the corona of my penis that feel a bit hard and sting when touched.
They feel somewhat like pimples.
I had a similar situation before and went to a large hospital for examination; at that time, there was only one spot that looked like a pimple.
The doctor said it was nothing serious and prescribed a topical treatment.
They also checked and confirmed it was not a sexually transmitted infection.
About a week after using the medication, it improved, but that area remained slightly red.
Recently, while showering, I noticed that the original area has become red and swollen again, and there are now two additional spots.
I decided to use the medication that the doctor prescribed previously.
The first occurrence was around August 2015, and now I have a similar issue again, which I noticed three days ago.
After applying the medication, it initially looked better and was not very red, but then it suddenly became very red.
I would like to ask the doctor what this issue might be.

Niming 2, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/02

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Anonymous 2: Hello, I recommend that you first seek treatment from a physician.
Additionally, it is important to enhance the cleaning and maintenance of the glans to prevent recurrent episodes.
For cleaning methods, please refer to the responses I have provided to other users in the past.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is essential to visit a medical institution for treatment.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/02

More Info

Red swellings on the penis, particularly in the coronal area, can be concerning and may arise from various causes. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing recurrent red, swollen bumps that feel hard and may cause some discomfort, similar to acne. This condition can be attributed to several factors, including infections, inflammatory conditions, or even benign growths.

One possible cause of these symptoms is Pearly Penile Papules, which are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the corona of the penis. They are a normal anatomical variant and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or anxiety. However, since you mentioned that the bumps have caused some pain and have recurred, it is essential to consider other potential causes.

Another possibility is Folliculitis, which is the inflammation of hair follicles. This can occur due to irritation, infection, or blockage of the follicles, often presenting as red, swollen bumps that may resemble pimples. Folliculitis can be caused by bacterial infections, fungal infections, or even irritation from shaving or tight clothing.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), though you mentioned previous tests ruled this out, should also be considered if new symptoms arise. Conditions like herpes or molluscum contagiosum can present with similar symptoms. It is crucial to ensure that you have comprehensive testing, especially if new lesions appear or if there are changes in your sexual health.

In your case, since you have previously been prescribed medication that seemed to help, it may be beneficial to revisit your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They may recommend a different topical treatment or oral medication if an infection or inflammation is suspected. It is also important to avoid self-medicating with leftover prescriptions, as this may not address the underlying issue effectively.

In terms of treatment, if the bumps are due to folliculitis, maintaining good hygiene and avoiding irritants can help. Over-the-counter topical antibiotics may be beneficial, but it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. If the condition is recurrent, your doctor may suggest a more targeted approach based on the specific diagnosis.

Additionally, if you notice any changes in the appearance of the bumps, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, or if you experience systemic symptoms like fever or chills, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious infection that requires immediate treatment.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing may not be uncommon, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional who can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your doctor about any changes in your symptoms will be crucial in managing this condition effectively.

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