The term "balanitis" in medicine refers to the inflammatory process that is localized on the glans penis. In parallel with it, inflammation also develops on the inner leaf of the foreskin. Balanoposthitis in a child, according to doctors, is quite common. It is also necessary to mention a disease such as phimosis - it is impossible to expose the head of the penis. It is observed in almost all infants: according to statistical studies, only four percent of newborns are born with mobile foreskin; by three years this number is increasing to 90 percent.
Possible reasons
Balanoposthitis in a child can develop under the influence of several factors. Firstly, if hygiene rules are not followed. Secondly, from irritation with underwear (for example, a baby may be allergic to synthetics). Thirdly, the cause is often a genital injury.
Predisposition
First of all, you should pay close attention to hygiene measures. This is very important, because the secretions of the genital and sebaceous glands, droplets of urine and dead skin particles form a curd mass that accumulates in the preputial sac and creates an ideal breeding ground for the growth of bacteria and microbes. In addition, balanoposthitis in a child can be the result of phimosis, which greatly complicates the process of cleansing the penis.
What are the causes of phimosis?
What can provoke phimosis? First of all, trauma to the penis, which led to the formation of scar tissue and narrowing of the foreskin. Phimosis often results in inflammation of the foreskin - that is, balanoposthitis in a child. Doctors note that there is also the likelihood of a genetic predisposition: while in the baby’s body there is a lack of connective tissue (more precisely, its elastic component).
Symptomatology
What symptoms should I look for first? Follow the condition of the baby's foreskin : with balanitis, it turns red and swells. The penis increases sharply in volume and hurts. Burning and itching during urination, whitish discharge from the head, plaque - all these signs indicate chronic balanoposthitis. As for adults, their disease is more severe: the general condition worsens, the temperature rises sharply, every trip to the toilet becomes a real problem.
Complications
The disease is mainly dangerous because the inflammatory process from the foreskin can spread to the urethra. A sluggish disease often leads to the fact that the receptor apparatus completely atrophies; the sensitivity of the head decreases sharply, which cannot but affect the intensity and quality of sexual activity. Over time, the head of the penis becomes covered with small sores, causing acute pain.
Balanitis and balanoposthitis: treatment
What can you do? Alone - nothing. At the first signs of the disease, consult a doctor - he will determine the area of ​​damage and prescribe treatment. With phimosis started, surgery may be required. In addition to taking medications, you will have to carefully monitor hygiene. Wash the head several times a day and do not neglect the regular change of underwear.