What Causes Redness On The Head Of The Penis?

Posted on Sat, 13 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 13 Aug 2016 Answered on

Thu, 1 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Over a month ago i noticed that my skin on my glans was red as if the skin was irritated for some reason. I dont know why but i know its not something i have gotten sexually. Now that a month have past it is still there and it looks the same. I can upload a picture for further detail. I would like to know how i can deal with this.

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Looks like an allergic or inflammatory reaction.

Detailed Answer:
Hello Edvin and welcome to HCM.
As an Urologist,i can understand your concern.

It looks like an allergic or inflammatory reaction.
You should've consulted a doctor much earlier.

Clarify a few points,so i can give an expert advice :
1. Are you able to retract the foreskin completely.
2. Do you've any itching over that reddish area.
3. Have you seen any discharge from that area.
4. In case you've had sex with one or multiple partners,do the following tests :
Hb,RBS,creatinine,LFT,platelets,VDRL,HbsAg and HIV.

After seeing your reply,i shall give you an expert opinion.
Maintain good penile hygiene and avoid moisture over that area.

Wish you well.
Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (9 hours later)

I can retract the foreskin completly, however i believe its like a little friction while doing it. I have no itching there. I havent noticed any discharge. Also i havent had any sex so it cant be a sexual disease right?

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Send a photo of penis,with fully retracted foreskin.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Edvin,

The photo you've sent,shows the foreskin hasn't been retracted fully.
If possible,retract fully and send a photo in that position,for better assessment.

Without sex,STD's are ruled out.
Avoid masturbation,till this clears.
After seeing the next photo,i shall advise further treatment.

Wish you well.
Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (3 hours later)

Hi, I have provided some attachments. Please review them.

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Mild inflammation of foreskin and glans is seen

Detailed Answer:
Hi Edvin,

Now the penis can be seen clearly,with the foreskin retracted.
The glans was seen clearly in previous picture.

The foreskin also is mildly inflamed,which may be an allergic type of change.
You should be using cotton underwears.
Synthetic ones,can give an allergic reaction.
If you've tried applying some creams,that also could give rise to similar changes.

Retract the foreskin completely during bathing and wash the inner foreskin.
Keep it dry and don't apply any commercial creams.

You may use Neosporin ointment twice daily.
Also, tablets of cetrizine once daily, for about 5 days,do help.
You may get it prescribed,from a local doctor or licensed pharmacist.

Wish you well.
Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (12 hours later)

Thank you for helping me understanding this issue. I will certainly follow the tips you have given me. As for the medicine im not sure we have those in my country so i will have to ask a local doctor for something similar to be sure i take the right thing. I appreciate you looking into this.

Answered by Dr. Matthew J. Mangat (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You're welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Edvin,

You're welcome.
You can feel free to ask any doubts you may have.

Wish you well.

Dr.Matthew J. Mangat.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar