Balanitis is the inflammation of the glands located in the head and foreskin of the penis. It is common in uncircumcised men. Men with diabetes are more prone to developing balanitis. Balanitis is not sexually transmitted. It is the result of an overgrowth of organisms which are normally present on the skin of the glands.

Complications of Balanitis
Recurrent bouts of balanitis may cause scarring of the preputial orifice; the reduced elasticity may lead to pathologic phimosis.

Causes of Balanitis

The most common causes of balanitis are:

• poor hygiene under the foreskin
• irritation from condoms, spermicides or clothing
• STDS
• yeast infection
• bacterial infection

Signs & Symptoms of Balanitis

Symptoms will occur between 3 days to 7 days after balanitis has developed. The most common symptoms are:

• discharge from the penis
• red, itchy and most penis (top part)

Diagnosis of Balanitis

Diagnosis may include careful identification of the cause with the aid of a good patient history, swabs and cultures, and pathologic examination of a biopsy.

Treatments of Balanitis
Balanitis can be treated. The treatment will depend on the cause. A cream may be prescribed to soothe inflammation. An antibiotic may be prescribed if it is caused by a bacterial infection. In some cases, circumcision may be necessary.

Prevention of Balanitis

Balanitis can be prevented . Prevention techniques include:

• use good penile hygiene
• wash penis and scrotum daily with soap and water