Red and itchy penis

On the head of my penis it has become red and itchy, but also there is a layer of white, and the white stuff is almost like dead skin but it doesnt come off that easy. I am also uncircumcised. Also I have had sex with no lubrication within the last week, I have heard that could irritate my penis. Any suggestions?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Your symptoms are suggestive of balanitis penis. It is an inflammation of the glans (glands) penis. Oral course of antibiotics is needed. In addition, please don’t use any cosmetics on the penis,instead use some topical antimicrobials like Bacitracin or Lotrimin. Also corticosteroids and topical immunosuppressants can be used but they are available under prescription. Also retract the foreskin daily and soak in warm water to clean penis and foreskin. In case the symptoms persist then please consult a urologist/dermatologist for evaluation and antimicrobials and steroids prescription.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Natch0412]

I have an inflammation of the glans (glands) penis (on the top side of the rim) and it won't go away.  Intermittent itching and swelling but no white skin or obvious infection.  I am also circumsized.    What else can cause an irritation of the glans (glands) penis?