Balanitis

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Encyclopedia -> Disease -> B -> Balanitis

Balanitis

Alternate Names: Balanoposthitis

Causes and Risks: Balanitis is usually caused by poor hygiene in uncircumcised men. However, exposure to caustic soaps or failure to properly rinse the soap while bathing may result in inflammation.

Prevention: The foreskin should be retracted to adequately clean and dry the area under the foreskin.

Symptoms:

redness of foreskin or penis
foul-smelling discharge
painful penis and foreskin

Treatment: In cases of severe inflammation that is causing problems with urination, a circumcision may be recommended.

Complications: Chronic inflammation can result in scarring and narrowing of the meatal opening (urethral stricture). Also, chronic inflammation or infection can make it difficult and painful to reposition the retracted foreskin to its normal position covering the head of the penis. Inflammation can also cause the retracted foreskin to swell, leading to constriction of the penis and possibly penile injury.

Notify your health care provider if you are experiencing any signs of balanitis including swelling of the foreskin or pain.

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