What causes redness and swelling on turtle scalp?

Redness and swelling of the glans scalp may be related to balanitis, allergic dermatitis, mechanical friction injury, bacterial infection, fungal infection, etc., which can be relieved through anti-infective treatment, local cleaning and care, and drug application.

1. Balanitis

Balanitis is usually caused by insufficient local cleaning due to excessive foreskin, and is mainly characterized by redness and swelling of the glans and increased secretions. You can use erythromycin ointment, clotrimazole cream, compound ketoconazole cream and other drugs for treatment as directed by your doctor. Daily care should be taken to open the foreskin, clean it thoroughly, and keep it dry.

2. Atopic dermatitis

Contact with allergenic substances such as condoms and detergents may cause allergic dermatitis, which manifests as redness, swelling and itching of the glans skin. It is recommended to stop using the suspected product immediately and use topical hormone drugs such as hydrocortisone cream and desonide cream as directed by your doctor, along with cetirizine tablets for oral anti-allergy.

3. Mechanical friction damage

Excessive friction during sexual intercourse or clothing may cause redness and swelling of the glans epidermis. It is recommended to suspend sexual life, wear loose cotton underwear, apply local cold compress to relieve swelling, and use mupirocin ointment to prevent infection if necessary.

4. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus can cause purulent inflammation of the glans, accompanied by burning sensation. It is necessary to seek medical treatment for secretion testing, and use fusidic acid cream, levofloxacin tablets and other antibacterial drugs as directed by the doctor.

5. Fungal infection

Candida infection is common in patients with diabetes or those with low immunity. Red spots and white scales appear on the glans. After diagnosis, antifungal drugs such as miconazole nitrate suppositories and itraconazole capsules need to be used to control blood sugar.

If the scalp is red and swollen, you should avoid scratching it and wash it with warm water every day and keep it dry. Eat a light diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods. If the redness and swelling last for more than 3 days or are accompanied by fever, ulceration and other symptoms, you need to see a urology department or dermatology department in time. Pay attention to choosing breathable underwear every day and avoid using irritating bath products. People with excessive foreskin may consider elective circumcision to prevent recurrence.