penis itching under the foreskin/redness in patches

[shivm2290]

doctor.i believe i have some sort of fungus infection.there is a lot of itching on my penis head under the foreskin.generally the affected areas become red.it generally happens after masturbation.but since a few days its happening even if i dont masturbate.and after i scratch.i get burning sensation while urinating once or twice.there was a little bit swelling even on my foreskin today.i got up due to the itching.this has been happening for a while now.often theres smegma on my penis even though i wash often..there always seems to be da white substance.do i have fungus infection.im embarrassed to visit the doctor.what should i do.please suggest


This discussion is related to itchy foreskin.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm without examination but the symptoms that you are having are due to balanitis of the penis.It is an inflammation of the glans 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.
Hope it helps .Take care and please do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries. Kind regards.

[shivm2290]

thank you doctor...but exactly which antimicrobial should i use.?? is there any medicine which i can take orally?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Topical antimicrobials like Bacitracin and Lotrimin are available over the counter and for oral antimicrobials, a dermatologist’s consultation and prescription are mandatory.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.