WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is balanitis? Balanitis is inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis. It is usually caused by bacteria or a fungus. What increases my risk for balanitis? - Presence of foreskin
- Obesity
- Poor hygiene
- A urinary catheter
- Diabetes
- An allergy to condoms or certain medicines, such as spermicide
What are the signs and symptoms of balanitis? - Tight, shiny skin on the head of your penis
- Redness, pain, and swelling on the head of your penis
- Fluid or pus coming from your penis
- Painful urination or not being able to urinate
- Swollen glands near your groin
- Sores on the head of your penis
How is balanitis diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine your penis and ask about your symptoms. You may also need the following: - Blood and urine tests may show what germs are causing your balanitis.
- A skin sample is gently scraped from the infected area. This is sent to a lab and tested for germs that may be causing your balanitis.
How is balanitis treated? You may need medicine to help fight the infection. This medicine may be given as a pill or a cream. How can I manage my symptoms? - Clean your penis carefully. Gently push back the foreskin 2 to 3 times a day and wash the infected area well with soap and water. If you have a catheter, ask how to keep it clean.
- Take a sitz bath. Fill a bathtub with 4 to 6 inches of warm water. You may also use a sitz bath pan that fits over a toilet. Sit in the sitz bath for 20 minutes. Do this 2 to 3 times a day, or as directed. The warm water can help decrease pain and swelling.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your healthcare provider how much you should weigh. Ask him to help you create a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- You have pain when you urinate.
- Your symptoms return.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care? - You are not able to urinate.
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