Patient's question:
I have recently noticed red spots on my glans and foreskin, but there are no blisters yet. I visited a county hospital, and the doctor diagnosed it as balanitis and prescribed some antifungal medication for me to take, along with gentamicin cream for external use. I have been using the medication for two days, but there has been no improvement. What should I do?Doctor's answer:
Hello, balanoposthitis is mostly caused by fungal infections, and a few cases can be caused by bacterial infections. The main symptoms include red papules on the glans and foreskin, itching, increased smegma, and a bad odor.Advice: It is recommended to stop using gentamicin, as it is an antibacterial medication and generally ineffective against fungi. Your doctor may have prescribed it out of concern for a potential bacterial infection. Use topical antifungal creams such as Nystatin cream, Clotrimazole cream, or Terbinafine cream. Choose 1-2 types, clean the area with plain water in the morning and evening, apply the cream, and use it persistently. Apply a thin layer so that it is barely visible—applying too thickly can be counterproductive.