What is balanoposthitis
Inflammation of the glans itself is called balanitis, inflammation of the inner layer of the foreskin is called posthitis. Since these surfaces are constantly in contact, the process usually affects both structures, and they speak of balanoposthitis.
The space under the foreskin is warm and moist; smegma accumulates here, which creates favorable conditions for the proliferation of microorganisms. When hygiene is poor, immunity decreases or glucose levels are elevated, the balance is disrupted and inflammation develops.
Symptoms
- Redness of the head and inner layer of the foreskin
- Itching and burning
- Swelling that makes it difficult to expose the head
- Discharge from under the foreskin: white cheesy if fungal in nature, purulent if bacterial
- Unpleasant smell
- Pain on touch, erection and intercourse
- Minor erosion, cracks, plaque
- Pain when urinating, if the process has spread to the external opening of the urethra
- Enlarged inguinal lymph nodes
Reasons
- Fungal infection, primarily candida, is one of the most common causes, especially in men with high blood sugar
- Bacterial flora: streptococci, staphylococci, Escherichia coli, anaerobes
- Sexually transmitted infections: trichomonas, chlamydia, herpes, gonococcus
- Diabetes mellitus - glucose in the urine creates a breeding ground for fungi
- Phimosis and difficult hygiene
- Insufficient or, conversely, overly aggressive hygiene using antiseptics and soaps with strong fragrances
- Allergic and contact reactions: latex, lubricants, spermicides, hygiene products, washing powders
- Mechanical irritation during sexual intercourse, friction of tight underwear
- Skin diseases: psoriasis, lichen planus, lichen sclerosus
- Decreased immunity, taking antibiotics and glucocorticoids
Diagnostics
- Examination by a urologist with assessment of the nature of rashes and discharge
- Head smear for microflora and fungi
- Culture with determination of sensitivity to drugs
- PCR for sexually transmitted infections
- Blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin
- General urine test
- Examination of the partner when an infection is detected
- Consultation with a dermatovenerologist if a skin disease is suspected
- Biopsy for non-healing ulcers, dense formations and suspicious changes
Treatment
- Thorough but gentle hygiene: washing with warm water without aggressive antiseptics and soap
- Local antifungal agents for candidiasis
- Local antibacterial drugs for bacterial inflammation
- Systemic drugs for severe processes, relapses and reduced immunity
- Combined drugs with an anti-inflammatory component - a short course as prescribed by a doctor
- Treatment of a sexual partner with a confirmed infection
- Eliminating the allergen or irritant
- Compensation for diabetes - without this treatment will be ineffective
- Circumcision for cicatricial phimosis and frequently recurring episodes - eliminates conditions for inflammation
- Sexual rest for the period of treatment
It is important not to self-medicate with ointments with hormones: for a fungal infection, they provide short-term relief, and then sharply worsen the course of the process.
Prevention
- Daily hygiene with exposing the head and rinsing with warm water
- Refusal of aggressive antiseptics and soaps with fragrances for intimate hygiene
- Dry thoroughly after washing
- Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear
- Using a condom during casual contact
- Monitoring blood glucose levels, especially if you are overweight and have a family history of diabetes
- Timely treatment of phimosis
- Changing lubricant or contraception if an allergy is suspected
Where is balanoposthitis treated in Tashkent
For accurate treatment, you need a smear to identify the pathogen, a glucose test and, if necessary, examination for sexually transmitted infections.
In Tashkent, examination and treatment of balanoposthitis, as well as circumcision for recurrent cases, are carried out at the UROLOGIC COMPLEX medical center and at the Tashkent Medical Park clinic.
If inflammation recurs a third time or more, do not limit yourself to ointment: ask your doctor to check your sugar levels and rule out phimosis. Clinic contacts are below on the page.
