Balanoposthitis or balanitis in men: causes, symptoms, and treatment

What is balanoposthitis?

Balanoposthitis is an inflammatory disease of the foreskin and glans in men. It is caused by the impact of pathogenic microflora. The disease is most often diagnosed in boys and adolescents due to insufficient hygiene, but it is also quite common in adult men. The predisposing factors are chronic infections, weakened immunity, endocrine diseases, and poor maintenance of the intimate area. If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications such as urethritis , prostatitis, decreased sensitivity of the head of the penis, and erectile dysfunction.

Causes and symptoms of balanoposthitis

Causes of the disease

The causative agents of balanoposthitis can be opportunistic microorganisms (Escherichia coli, staphylococci, streptococci) and infectious agents (Candida fungi, trichomonas, pale treponemes, herpes virus).

Factors that increase the risk of developing the disease:

• Phimosis - narrowing of the foreskin, making hygiene difficult;
• Insufficient care of the intimate area;
• Wearing tight synthetic underwear;
• Allergic reactions to detergents or latex;
• Diabetes mellitus and endocrine disorders;
• Associated inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system (cystitis, pyelonephritis, urethritis);
• weakened immunity due to chronic illnesses, stress, or vitamin deficiency.

Symptoms of balanoposthitis

The clinical manifestations of the disease include

• redness, swelling, and pain in the area of the glans and foreskin;
• burning and itching in the affected area;
• formation of a white or yellowish plaque on the glans of the penis;
• purulent or serous discharge with an unpleasant odor;
• the appearance of ulcers and erosions;
• frequent and painful urination;
• in severe cases, an increase in body temperature and general weakness.

If the symptoms do not disappear after a few days, it is important to consult a urologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and treatment of balanoposthitis

Diagnostic methods

To establish a diagnosis, the urologist conducts a clinical examination, analyzes the patient's complaints, and prescribes laboratory tests:

• General blood and urine analysis - to detect signs of inflammation;
• Bacteriological culture of the smear - to determine the causative agent and its sensitivity to antibiotics;
• PCR analysis for infections - to detect viral and bacterial diseases;
• Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - if the venereal nature of the disease is suspected.

Treatment of balanoposthitis

Treatment tactics depend on the cause of the disease and its severity. A urologist may prescribe

• Antibacterial medications (in case of bacterial infection);
• Antifungal agents (if the cause is a Candida fungus);
• antiviral medications (in case of the herpetic form of the disease);
• Treatment with antiseptic solutions (chlorhexidine, furaciline, miramistine);
• Immunostimulants and vitamin complexes to strengthen the body;
• Physiotherapy procedures to accelerate tissue healing;
• Surgical treatment (circumcision) - in cases of complicated phimosis or recurrent balanoposthitis.

Important: self-treatment can lead to chronicity of the disease and the development of complications. As soon as the first symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a specialist.

Prevention of balanoposthitis

To reduce the risk of developing the disease, it is important to follow a set of preventive measures:

• Regular hygiene of the genital organs using mild detergents;
• Wearing loose cotton underwear to avoid skin irritations;
• Using barrier contraception methods (condoms);
• Monitoring blood sugar levels in cases of diabetes mellitus;
• Strengthening immunity through a balanced diet, taking vitamins (A, C, D, E), physical activity, and avoiding bad habits;
• Timely treatment of inflammatory diseases of the urogenital system.

Consultation with a specialist

You can make an appointment with a urologist-andrologist at the "Natuvitro" clinic by calling the number indicated in the contact section. Specialists will help you identify the cause of the inflammation, prescribe effective treatment, and provide recommendations for disease prevention.

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