Diagnosis
If you have a swollen glans, you should seek medical attention. It always starts with a detailed doctor-patient conversation to reconstruct the patient’s medical history. Important points with this symptom are for example intimate hygiene, changes in the skin or skin diseases in general, other symptoms, problems urinating or during sexual intercourse and after allergies (e.g. latex).
This is followed by a physical examination in which the glans and lymph nodes are examined. If infectious inflammation of the glans is suspected, a smear is taken from the glans and the laboratory can then determine which pathogen is responsible for the symptoms. Very rarely a blood sample is necessary for diagnosis. And only in very rare cases, when a small clear diagnosis can be made and the symptoms are permanent and persistent, a tissue sample (biopsy) must be taken.
Therapy
Initially, swelling of the glans can have many causes and the therapy can be just as varied. Only by a visit to the doctor can it be determined what exactly comes into question and this can be specifically treated. In the frequent case of an inflammation, ointments or systemically acting tablets help to stop the pathogens or kill them.
If the inflammation or swelling is not caused by bacteria, ointments containing cortisone can also help. If the symptoms occur more frequently, circumcision should be considered. In sexually active men it should be excluded that the swelling is caused by sexual practices and that there is no constant mutual infection with possible germs.
If the swelling is accompanied by pain when urinating, it may help to hold the penis in warm water (bathtub, bucket, bidet). This relieves the burning sensation, as well as high drinking quantities, which prevent the urine from being highly concentrated. Thorough personal and intimate hygiene can help to prevent painful swelling and inflammation.
Camomile seated baths or rinsing with chamomile are also suitable for this purpose. If the swelling is not under control after a few days, a doctor should be consulted who can identify and treat the underlying disease.Depending on the age of the patient, the pediatrician or family doctor can be consulted first if the glans is swollen. With his or her broad knowledge, wealth of experience and basic decision-making skills, this doctor can decide whether the patient can treat this condition himself or herself, or whether the help of a specialist is needed who has a better understanding of the more specific clinical picture. Accordingly, a urologist can also be consulted, who deals with the urinary tract system and often also with andrology.
