Balanitis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis. A form of the disease called balanoposthitis typically occurs in uncircumcised infants and boys.

Causes

In adult males, a sexually transmitted disease is often the culprit. In uncircumcised boys, the problem is typically the result of an infection brought on by poor hygiene. Especially if the foreskin is tight, secretions can accumulate under it, providing an environment in which germs can flourish. Laundry detergent from clothing can cause further irritation and swelling of the area.

Signs/Symptoms

The hallmarks of this ailment are soreness and swelling of the head of the penis. Swelling may draw the foreskin tight, and pus may form underneath it. Erections and urination are likely to be painful.

Care

To prevent this problem, uncircumcised boys should be taught to pull back the foreskin and wash the area thoroughly several times a week. If an infection develops, the doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic or an antibacterial cream. Surgery to remove the foreskin (circumcision) may be required in some cases to prevent further attacks.

Risks

Left untreated, pain and swelling are likely to increase, sometimes to the extent that the flow of urine is blocked.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• Soak in a warm bath to cleanse the area and prevent the infection from getting worse.
• Regularly apply any cream prescribed by your doctor.
• If the condition develops in an infant, be sure to change the baby's diapers frequently.
• Rinse clothes thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent.

Call Your Doctor If...

• The penis continues to swell and becomes more painful.
• You notice a discharge from the tip of the penis.

Seek Care Immediately If...

• Urination becomes impossible.

IF YOU'RE HEADING FOR THE HOSPITAL

If a circumcision is necessary, the procedure can be performed in either a hospital or an outpatient clinic. It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete.

What to Expect While You're There

You may encounter the following procedures and equipment during your stay:

• Taking Vital Signs: These include temperature, blood pressure, pulse (counting heartbeats) and respiration (counting breaths).
• Prior to Surgery: The head of the penis will be cleaned and you will be given a sedative to relieve any discomfort during the procedure. Infants may be given a numbing medicine.
• During the Procedure: Typically, a plastic ring is placed around the penis and the foreskin is cut away. Bleeding should be minimal. Ointment and a bandage will be applied to keep the penis from rubbing against clothing.

After You Leave

• If a ring was applied during the procedure:
• • Gently clean the area with warm water three times per day or whenever necessary. You do not need to use soap.
  • After washing, cover the area of the cut with the cream or ointment suggested by your doctor. This will keep it soft during healing. A black rim around the plastic ring is normal.
  • Do not pull the ring off; bleeding could result.
• If a gauze bandage was used, wet it thoroughly with warm water and then gently remove it. After the bandage is off, clean the area as instructed above.

Call Your Doctor If...

• The ring does not fall off as quickly as your doctor said it would.
• The area where the cut was made is bleeding freely.

Seek Care Immediately If...

• Urination becomes difficult.
• The penis turns black or blue.
• You notice a discharge from the penis.
• A fever develops
• The skin on the penis becomes tender and red.