Balanoposthitis is characterized by inflammation of the foreskin, as well as the glans penis. Pathology can occur in people at any age, but balanoposthitis is more common in men with an active sex life and boys up to five years of age. The main cause of inflammation is infection (infection with viruses, bacteria, fungi).
Balanoposthitis in men and boys: causes
In adulthood, the pathological process develops as a result of non-compliance with hygiene rules, infection with infections during sexual intercourse. The presence of candidiasis (thrush) can cause candidal balanoposthitis in men. In addition, pathology can develop against the background of allergic reactions to any substance. Diabetes mellitus, cancer, the use of steroid hormones and antitumor drugs lower immunity, and therefore also predispose to balanoposthitis.
In children, one of the causes of pathology is also insufficient hygiene, including due to improper use of diapers (inappropriate size, rare shift). Contact dermatitis and allergic reactions can provoke not only inflammation of the head of the penis, but also the entire perineum, and even the buttocks. This condition is commonly called diaper dermatitis. In most young children, phimosis is observed - a narrowing of the foreskin, which leads to the inability to expose the head of the penis when it is pulled back. Because of this, in the head area under the skin, an inflammatory process can begin. Until the age of five, boys have phimosis - a common phenomenon that does not require treatment. But if signs of balanoposthitis are detected, you need to show the child to the doctor.
Balanoposthitis in men and boys: symptoms
In adults, in the presence of inflammation, the head of the penis and foreskin redden and swell. On the mucous membranes and skin in this area, a rash appears in the form of spots, vesicles or cracks. Itching occurs, when you touch the affected area, there is a strong burning sensation or pain. During intercourse, pain is present. Pus with an unpleasant odor can stand out from under the foreskin. In children, the symptoms are similar. In addition to the above, anxiety of the child, lack of appetite, poor sleep, moodiness can be noticed.
How to treat balanoposthitis in men and boys
Therapy consists in strict observance of personal hygiene, taking antibiotics, antiviral, antiallergic or antifungal agents (depending on the cause of the pathology). The use of external medicines (creams, ointments) is agreed with the attending physician. Apply them only on previously washed and dry skin. If balanoposthitis in men is caused by a fungus of the genus Candida, antifungal gels and ointments are used as treatment. If the cause of inflammation is a microbial infection (trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, etc.), in addition to applying ointments, oral antibiotics are prescribed. And with allergic dermatitis, antihistamine medications may be recommended. Often, these measures can cure balanoposthitis. Surgical intervention is only necessary if the cause of inflammation in an adult male is phimosis. Then, an operation consisting in the removal of the foreskin can be performed.