What is Balanitis?
Balanitis is inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis. When both the glans and foreskin are affected, it's called balanoposthitis.
Common Symptoms
- Redness and swelling of the penis head
- Itching or burning sensation
- Discharge under the foreskin
- Pain or discomfort
- Difficulty retracting the foreskin
- Unpleasant odor
Causes
Common causes include:
- Poor hygiene
- Fungal infections (e.g., Candida)
- Bacterial infections
- Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema)
- Allergic reactions to:
- Soaps
- Lubricants
- Spermicides
- Latex condoms
Risk Factors
- Uncircumcised males
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Compromised immune system
- Poor personal hygiene
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider will:
- Perform a physical examination
- Take a medical history
- May collect swabs for testing
- Check blood sugar levels if diabetes is suspected
Treatment Options
Medical Treatment
- Antifungal creams for fungal infections
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Steroid creams for inflammation
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Self-Care Measures
- Gentle cleaning with warm water
- Keeping the area dry
- Avoiding irritants
Prevention
- Maintain good hygiene
- Dry thoroughly after washing
- Use mild, unscented soaps
- Control blood sugar if diabetic
When to Seek Medical Care
- Symptoms persist beyond 1 week
- Severe pain or swelling
- Fever
- Difficulty urinating
- Recurring episodes
Complications
- Scarring
- Phimosis (tight foreskin)
- Spread of infection
- Sexual difficulties
Long-term Management
- Regular cleaning routine
- Prompt treatment of symptoms
- Regular medical check-ups if recurring
- Management of underlying conditions