Why is the glans red?

The red glans penis may be caused by balanitis, allergic reaction, friction irritation, contact dermatitis, urethritis, etc. It can be treated through local cleaning, anti-infection treatment, anti-allergy treatment, avoidance of irritation, and medical examination.

1. Balanitis

Balanitis may be related to bacterial or fungal infection and usually presents with symptoms such as redness and swelling of the glans, itching, and increased discharge. Patients can follow the doctor's advice and use antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole cream and miconazole nitrate cream, or antibiotics such as erythromycin ointment and mupirocin ointment. It is necessary to keep the perineum clean and dry every day and avoid scratching.

2. Allergic reaction

Contact with detergents, condoms or underwear materials may trigger allergic reactions, manifested as glans erythema and burning sensation. It is recommended to stop using suspicious items immediately, rinse with water and then use desonide cream or hydrocortisone cream as directed by your doctor to relieve symptoms. Parents should be aware that children may have similar reactions due to contact with toys, diapers and other items.

3. Friction stimulation

Excessive masturbation, strenuous exercise, or friction from clothing may cause mechanical congestion and redness of the glans. In this case, no medication is needed. It is recommended to wear loose cotton underwear to reduce local irritation. If there is damage, you can use Vaseline externally to protect the wound. It usually resolves on its own in 3-5 days.

4. Contact dermatitis

Exposure to chemicals such as shower gels, pesticides, etc. may trigger an inflammatory reaction, manifested as well-defined erythema with scaling. The affected area needs to be flushed with normal saline, and compound dexamethasone acetate cream or tacrolimus ointment should be used as directed by the doctor. In severe cases, loratadine tablets can be taken orally.

5. Urethritis

A gonococcal or chlamydial infection may spread to the glans, causing redness and swelling along with urethral tingling and purulent discharge. It is necessary to seek medical treatment for secretion testing. After diagnosis, cefixime dispersible tablets, azithromycin tablets and other drug treatments can be used. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment, and sexual partners need to be checked simultaneously.

You should choose breathable cotton underwear every day and avoid using alkaline detergents to clean the perineum. The diet should be light and reduce the intake of spicy and irritating foods. If the redness and swelling last for more than 48 hours or are accompanied by fever, ulcers and other symptoms, you must seek medical advice from a urology department in time. Parents should not self-medicate when children have symptoms and should first rule out common problems such as diaper rash.