Balanitis (bal-an-eye-tis) is a common infection that occurs in the foreskin. It can happen at any age, but it’s more likely to develop if you have a foreskin. Balanoposthitis is an inflammation that affects both the glans penis and prepuce.
Balanitis can cause the following symptoms:
Balanitis happens when a one doesn’t keep the inside of their foreskin clean. This can be because their foreskin isn’t pulled back, or can’t be pulled back when washing the penis. It’s common for the inflammation to be caused by bacteria or fungus.
Balanitis can also be caused by irritation from chemicals — the kinds found in household soap, clothing, washing powder, and the latex in condoms. Other causes include allergies to certain medicines, viruses such as HPV (human papillomavirus), and diabetes.
In adults, balanitis can be a sign of diabetes. Because diabetic people have increased levels of sugar in their urine, the combination of sugar and moisture can lead to bacterial or fungal growth if urine gets trapped under their foreskin. If one have a problem with recurring balanitis, it’s a good idea to ask a doctor about a test for diabetes.
Usually, washing the penis and the inside of your foreskin with soap and warm water will help prevent balanitis. If balanitis is caused by an infection, you can use antibiotics or antifungal ointments/creams to treat it
Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO, also known as lichen sclerosis) isn’t the same as balanitis. BXO is a condition where scar tissue forms at the tip of the foreskin, tightening the foreskin and making it difficult to pull back.
If one is worried about white scarring on their foreskin, they can talk to their doctor. BXO gets worse over time, so it’s important to seek help as soon as possible.
Both balanitis and BXO increase the chance of developing penis cancer, although penis cancer is still very uncommon (one in 100 of all male cancers).
For comprehensive Balanitis, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Short Frenulum, Circumcision, Sebaceous Cyst, Lipoma, Pilonidal Sinus, etc. treatment in Mumbai or its nearby vicinity (Borivali, Kandivali, Malad, Goregaon, Jogeshwari, Andheri, etc) consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Pradeep Shriyan.
Distinguished as a senior Laparoscopic and General, in the Mumbai Suburban region, Dr. Shriyan’s expertise lies in the specialized field of laparoscopic surgery.
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