Ongoing Red Marks on the Glans Penis Since Late 2021
Age/Gender: 19 years old, male, uncircumcised Duration: Symptoms have persisted since October or November of 2021. Symptoms Overview: - There are red marks present predominantly on the glans penis, with occasional appearances on the inner foreskin. - There is no itching involved. - Touching the area does not cause pain, though there is some mild discomfort. - No signs of discharge, swelling, or urinary difficulties have been reported. Symptom Pattern: The red marks cycle in appearance, lasting for approximately 2 to 3 months, followed by a similar duration without symptoms, before reappearing. Background Information: This condition first became apparent shortly after engaging in unprotected sexual activity in 2021. Initially, a physician proposed the possibility of a yeast infection in my partner, but subsequent fungal testing yielded negative results. There was one occasion when using a specific hygiene solution (which I can no longer access locally) was effective in eliminating the symptoms for around six months; however, they eventually reappeared. Current Condition: As of now, the red marks have returned, and there’s a mild redness noted on the foreskin as well, but no new symptoms have emerged. Inquiry: I am seeking potential explanations for these symptoms and any recommendations for tests or treatments that could lead to a lasting solution. Due to the location I reside in, where securing a medical appointment can take a long time, I would greatly appreciate any interim management advice for this issue.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 8:40:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
The presence of ongoing red marks on the glans penis can be concerning, especially since they have persisted since late 2021. These symptoms may suggest several possibilities, such as irritant or allergic reactions, post-inflammatory changes, or skin conditions like balanitis. It's important to manage the symptoms while seeking a more definitive diagnosis.
Explanation
Your symptoms are noteworthy for several reasons:
- The absence of itching, pain, or discharge might indicate a non-infectious process, particularly since they cyclically appear and disappear.
- The history of unprotected sexual activity raises the possibility of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), though the lack of other symptoms makes this less likely.
- The fact that a specific hygiene solution helped for an extended time suggests that irritants or allergens could be contributing factors.
Next Steps
-
Personal Hygiene:
- Maintain good genital hygiene by washing gently with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Avoid harsh soaps, as these can irritate the skin.
-
Moisturization:
- Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or hypoallergenic lotion to the area to help soothe irritation. Look for products designed for sensitive skin.
-
Avoid Irritants:
- Identify and avoid products that could irritate the area, including certain soaps, lotions, and laundry detergents.
-
Monitor Changes:
- Keep track of any changes in the appearance of the marks, along with any activities that might precede their flare-ups. Documenting these patterns can be helpful when you do seek medical attention.
-
Consider Allergy Testing:
- If irritation persists, consider whether you might be allergic to certain substances (e.g., condom materials, soaps). Patch testing could be an option in the future when you have access to a healthcare provider.
-
Interim Solutions:
- Continue with the self-care measures for now. If there is any aggravation in symptoms or if new symptoms appear, prioritize seeking medical advice as soon as it is possible.
Additional Considerations
While these steps can help manage your symptoms at home, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional when you can. A proper examination may help distinguish between various potential causes and lead to a targeted treatment plan. Remember, your comfort and health are paramount, and addressing concerns as they happen is important for your peace of mind.
If you have further questions or concerns, please seek more specific information or support as needed.
Related Questions
Interpretation Request for Recent Spinal NM Bone Scan
Hello, doctors. I'm reaching out for your insights regarding a recent NM bone scan of my spine. I've previously undergone a similar scan in 2022, and I'd like to compare the two. To provide context, I am a 29-year-old female weighing 100 kg, and I've been diagnosed with conditions including endplate sclerosis, spinal stenosis, cervical bone spurs, degenerative disc disease (DDD), and mild scoliosis. My medication regimen consists of several prescriptions. Unfortunately, my next appointment with my general practitioner is still a few weeks away, so I would appreciate your assessments on how the latest scan compares to the previous one. Thank you in advance for your help!
Unusual Wave Patterns in ECG: Potential Artifacts in Lead V6
Upon examining the ECG readings, I've noticed peculiar double wave formations appearing between the QRS complex and the T wave in lead V6. This is new to me, as I have never encountered such patterns before. Could these be classified as artifacts?
Unexplained Bruises on My Right Hand – Seeking Advice
I've noticed some unusual bruising on my right hand over the past month. Strangely enough, they don't hurt at all. Should I be concerned about this? It's quite puzzling to see these random marks without any apparent cause.
Intense Pain in Left Thumb
Greetings, I’ve been experiencing a piercing pain at the tip of my left thumb intermittently. This discomfort is situated within the thumb rather than on the outer skin. It primarily affects the underside of the thumb and surrounds the base of the nail. The pain seems to extend only to the first skin fold, specifically around the distal phalanx. When applying pressure, I’ve noticed some red streaks appearing beneath the surface, alongside the white area. I trust this explanation is clear. This issue has persisted for over a year, occurring sporadically but intensifying as time has passed. Could this be a cause for concern? A bit about myself: I am a 25-year-old female with no significant medical issues in my background. I previously smoked cigarettes for three years, transitioned to vaping, and have been vaping for six years now. I maintain an active lifestyle, frequently going to the gym and participating in various sports such as indoor football and pickleball. I don’t have any known allergies.
Persistent Need to Stretch Legs While Seated
I experience a significant discomfort when seated, particularly when my knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. This sensation compels me to stretch my legs straight, and if too much time passes without doing so—typically around every five to six minutes—the urge intensifies to an uncomfortable level that’s hard to manage. It’s more than just a desire to fidget; fully extending my legs tends to offer the greatest relief. Adjusting my position provides some comfort, but it doesn’t alleviate the feeling nearly as effectively as a full stretch does. This issue predominantly arises when I remain stationary in a chair. Occasionally, I notice a similar feeling when I’m lying down, but these instances are relatively rare compared to the frequent occurrences while sitting. I consulted a relative who is a medical professional about this discomfort, and they suggested that it doesn’t appear to align with Restless Leg Syndrome. However, since this isn't their specialization, I acknowledge that there may be a chance of error. * What could potentially be causing these sensations? * Does anyone else relate to this experience? * Are there methods available to help manage or diminish this feeling? I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights.