What is the reason for redness and swelling on the edge of glans penis?

Redness and swelling on the glans edge may be caused by balanitis, allergic reaction, mechanical friction irritation, fungal infection, bacterial infection, etc. It can be treated by local cleaning, anti-allergic treatment, anti-infective drugs, circumcision, lifestyle adjustment, etc.

1. Balanitis

Balanitis may be related to factors such as excessive foreskin and poor local hygiene. It usually presents with symptoms such as redness and swelling of the glans, pain, and increased secretions. Patients can use erythromycin ointment, clotrimazole cream, compound ketoconazole ointment and other drugs as directed by the doctor. It is necessary to keep the perineum clean and dry every day and avoid scratching.

2. Allergic reaction

Contact with allergens such as detergents and condom materials may cause redness and swelling at the edge of the glans, often accompanied by itching or burning sensations. The patient needs to immediately stop contact with the allergen, rinse with clean water, and follow the doctor's instructions to take oral loratadine tablets or topical hydrocortisone cream. It is recommended to choose underwear made of hypoallergenic materials.

3. Mechanical friction stimulation

Excessive masturbation, frequent sexual intercourse, or friction with clothing may cause mechanical damage to the glans, leading to redness and swelling around the edges. It is necessary to suspend sexual activities, wear loose cotton underwear, and apply local cold compress to relieve swelling. If damaged, apply mupirocin ointment to prevent infection.

4. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection is common in patients with diabetes or those who take antibiotics for a long time. It manifests as redness and swelling on the edge of the glans penis accompanied by white filmy discharge. A fungal microscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis, and antifungal drugs such as miconazole nitrate cream, itraconazole capsules, and fluconazole tablets can be used as directed by the doctor.

5. Bacterial infection

Gonococcal or streptococcal infection can cause purulent inflammation of the glans penis, often accompanied by pus discharge from the urethral orifice. Secretion culture needs to be carried out, and antibiotic treatment such as cefixime dispersible tablets, levofloxacin tablets, and azithromycin granules should be selected based on the drug sensitivity results. Sexual partners need to be checked simultaneously.

Daily care should be taken to clean the glans and the inside of the foreskin with warm water every day, and avoid using irritating lotions. The diet should be light and reduce the intake of spicy food. If the redness and swelling last for more than 3 days or symptoms such as ulceration and fever appear, you must go to the urology department in time. It is forbidden to use hormone-containing ointments by yourself until the cause of the disease is determined. Diabetic patients need to strictly control their blood sugar.