Why is it itchy and red under the glans?

Itching and redness under the glans may be caused by balanitis, allergic reaction, contact dermatitis, fungal infection, or pubic lice, and can be relieved by local cleansing, anti-infective treatment, anti-allergic drugs, etc.

1. Balanitis

Candida or bacterial infection may cause balanitis, which is characterized by redness, swelling, itching, and increased discharge on the glans and the inside of the foreskin. It may be related to insufficient cleaning and excessive foreskin. You can use clotrimazole cream, erythromycin ointment or compound ketoconazole cream as directed by your doctor. It is necessary to keep the perineum dry on a daily basis to avoid frequent irritation.

2. Allergic reaction

Allergenic ingredients in condoms, detergents or clothing fibers may trigger local allergies. Symptoms include erythema, burning sensation with itching, and usually no abnormal discharge. It is recommended to stop using the suspected allergen, rinse with water and then use desonide cream or calamine lotion. In severe cases, oral loratadine tablets can be taken.

3. Contact dermatitis

Prolonged exposure to urine, sweat or chemicals may cause damage to the skin barrier and the appearance of well-defined erythema or papules. It is necessary to reduce local friction, wear pure cotton underwear, and use hydrocortisone cream for a short period of time if necessary. In case of combined exudation, wet compress with boric acid solution can be used.

4. Fungal infection

Excessive proliferation of Candida albicans in a humid environment can cause annular erythema with scaling, and itching worsens at night. The diagnosis requires microscopic examination of fungal hyphae, and miconazole nitrate powder or bifonazole gel is used for treatment. Partners need to be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.

5. Pubic lice

Pubic louse bites may cause local papules, severe itching, and visible gray-blue spots or worm bodies. Pubic hair needs to be shaved and killed with Lindane cream and permethrine solution, and clothing and bedding need to be washed at high temperature. Avoid bacterial infections secondary to scratching.

It is recommended to wash the perineum daily with warm water and dry it completely, avoiding the use of alkaline lotions. Choose breathable cotton underwear and change it daily. Sleep naked at night to maintain ventilation. Suspend sexual intercourse until symptoms subside. If your partner has abnormal symptoms, you need to see a doctor together. If the redness, swelling, pus, or fever spread, seek medical attention immediately to rule out sexually transmitted diseases or cellulitis. People with diabetes need to pay special attention to blood sugar control to reduce the risk of infection.