What is balanitis?
Balanitis is swelling of the foreskin or penile skin. Balanitis occurs in 1 in 20 boys.
Balanitis is mostly seen in uncircumcised children. It can be painful at times, but is usually not serious. It is usually relieved with the use of local drugs and warm sitz baths.
What causes balanitis?
Balanitis is an inflammation-reaction, typically caused by infections or chronic (long-term) skin conditions. Unhygienic conditions for the skin can cause skin irritation. Inadequate cleaning of the penis can cause skin irritation (discomfort), as well as too much soap, shower gel, etc. Excessive cleaning with cleaners can also cause this problem. As a result of cleaning with excessive chemicals, the flora (natural structure) of the penis may deteriorate and the number of bacteria or fungi in its nature may increase. Keeping the glans and foreskin moist is an ideal place for these organisms to grow. Sometimes, causes such as urinary tract infection and phimosis can also cause balanitis.
Some of the causes that can cause skin irritation include:
- Soap, shower gel etc after shower. not completely removing products from the penis, not rinsing well
- Unnaturally scented, perfumed soaps, etc., to clean the penis. to use products
- Using cleaning products that dry the skin
- Fragrant lotion, spray, etc. for the penis. use of products
- Some laxatives, sleeping pills, pain relievers and antibiotics can cause Balanitis as a side effect.
Symptoms
Swelling and redness of the foreskin may indicate Balanitis. Other accompanying symptoms may include:
- Hardening and stretching of the circumcision lesson
- Stream
- Itching of the head of the penis
- Pain in and around the penis
- Sensitized skin in the penis lesson
In some cases, swelling of the glans can put pressure on the urethra (urinary tract). This can cause pain when urinating.
How is the diagnosis made?
Balanitis is usually diagnosed during a physician's physical examination. Because complaints are symptoms that can be seen with the eyes. When your doctor deems it necessary, he may take a sample from the penis head with the help of a cotton swab and ask for laboratory results or request a direct urinalysis.
Treatment of Balanitis
After a detailed physical examination, a steroid cream is prescribed to reduce the complaints. This cream will help stop your itching sensation and the reaction in the penis. In addition, warm sitz baths for 10 minutes 3-4 times a day will also be effective in reducing swelling.
If there is an infection, an antibiotic or antifungal medication is prescribed to clear the infection. Thanks to the antibiotics you will use, your complaints such as swelling, itching and discharge will stop.
Possible Complications (Problems)
It should be treated as soon as possible so that other problems that may accompany balanitis do not occur. Possible complications include:
- Wound on the skin of the penis
- Pain and retraction of the foreskin
- Insufficient blood flow to the penis
- Phimosis after frequent balanitis (narrowing of the opening at the tip of the foreskin)
- Difficulty urinating
How to prevent balanitis?
To prevent balanitis, it is sufficient to comply with simple hygiene conditions. In addition, avoiding the use of perfumed or deodorizing products on the penis and washing the penis with plenty of water in the shower are simple measures you can take to remove chemicals such as soap.
The symptoms of balanitis can be so long that they only last a few days. But for long-lasting balanitis, you should definitely consult a pediatric urologist. Most balanitis heals with careful hygiene rules and medications. The important thing here is that you should apply to your doctor without delay in diagnosis and treatment.