Balanitis

Balanitis is a condition where the head of the penis (glans) is inflamed. Balanitis occurs mainly in uncircumcised men.

 

Image from Pepermpron/Adobe Stock

Causes

Balanitis is commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infection. Balanitis may also be caused by non-infectious skin conditions.

Risk factors

Uncircumcised penis, poor hygiene and diabetes mellitus are some of the risk factors for balanitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of balanitis include pain, redness, itch and whitish discharge over the glans penis.

Treatment

Depending on the suspected cause and severity of the balanitis, treatment may consist of application of anti-fungal cream, application of  antibiotic cream, oral anti-fungal pill, or oral antibiotics.

Proper hygiene with regular washing of the penis may help to reduce the risk of the balanitis recurring.

If the balanitis keeps recurring, circumcision may be recommended.