Balanoposthitis Treatment - Causes, Symptoms & Surgery

Balanoposthitis is a painful urological condition that affects partially circumcised or completely uncircumcised men. Men often refrain from talking about it as it is an intimate issue. However, this condition can cause some severe complications if left untreated for a long time. Read on to learn all about Balanoposthitis.

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What is Balanoposthitis?

Balanoposthitis is a disease of the male genitalia that involves inflammation of the foreskin and glans in uncircumcised men. Generally, it does not require treatment and gets better on its own. However, in some cases, medical intervention becomes a must.

The condition is quite discomforting and has no single cause. It is common in uncircumcised and partially circumcised men. This condition is generabecomeslly curable by medical intervention and requires circumcision surgery only when the condition gets severe.

balanoposthitis

How does Balanoposthitis Occur?

The causes of Balanoposthitis are multiple and may vary for each individual. In all Balanoposthitis cases, the doctors identify the condition’s cause before suggesting treatment. The leading causes of this condition generally include:-

  • Infections including penile yeast infections, Chlamydia, fungal infections, etc.
  • Eczema
  • Chronic balanitis (balanitis xerotica obliterans)
  • Trauma or injuries
  • Irritation caused by rubbing or scratching
  • Psoriasis
  • Irritation from exposure to chemicals
  • Reactive arthritis

Symptoms of Balanoposthitis

Balanoposthitis Symptoms include:

  • Pain &, tenderness
  • Irritation in the skin
  • Discolored or shiny skin
  • Dryness
  • Itching or burning
  • Unusual discharge
  • Thick, leathery skin (lichenification)

Balanoposthitis Diagnosis

It is a typically diagnosed with the help of a physical exam. During this exam, the urologist will examine your penis and ask you questions about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Based on the physical exam findings, the doctor might suggest other tests.

The doctors perform a swab test to collect samples from the head or foreskin of the penis and examine them under a microscope. They may also suggest a blood test or biopsy to rule out other complications.

When to consult a doctor for balanoposthitis treatment?

Balanoposthitis can be quite painful and may worsen if it’s left untreated. Consult a doctor for this condition if you:

  • Experience unbearable pain or tenderness in the foreskin.
  • Your foreskin has become incredibly dry, thick, or leathery.
  • You are experiencing constant burning or itching in the foreskin.
  • You are noticing abnormal discharge.

If Balanoposthitis treatment Left Untreated:

Typically, Balanoposthitis goes away on its own without treatment. However, in the rest of the cases, it can cause alarming symptoms and may worsen if left untreated. Listed below are some complications that might occur if you leave Balanoposthitis untreated:

  • Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO): This progressive skin condition involves hardening of the glans and foreskin
  • Paraphimosis: In this condition, the individual cannot pull the foreskin over the head of the penis.
  • Meatal stenosis: This condition comprises an abnormal narrowing of the urethra.
  • Phimosis: The inability to retract the foreskin

Balanoposthitis Treatment

Non-surgical

Balanoposthitis exhibits different symptoms in each individual. The treatment extended for this condition is based on the seriousness of the condition. In most cases, non-surgical methods offer fruitful results, especially when the disease is in its initial stages. So, on that note, listed below are some standard non-surgical treatment methods for Balanoposthitis:

  • Antibiotics: If your Balanoposthitis is caused due to STD infections, the doctors might prescribe antibiotics for balanoposthitis treatment. The types of antibiotics will depend upon the type of infection.
  • Antifungal creams: Yeast infections are also a leading cause of Balanoposthitis. If the cause of this condition is yeast infections, the doctor will give you antifungal medicines to curb the discomfort.
  • Diabetes management: Balanoposthitis is also common in people affected by diabetes. In these cases, the balanoposthitis treatment consists of ways to manage diabetes.

Surgical

In chronic or recurrent cases of Balanoposthitis, surgery becomes requisite. Circumcision is a common surgical procedure for balanoposthitis treatment and other common diseases like balanitis treatment, phimosis treatment, paraphimosis treatment, and foreskin infection treatments. Circumcision is usually performed by the following methods- laser circumcision, stapler circumcision, and open circumcision., which involves the removal of the foreskin covering the head of the penis (glans). This surgery is generally performed using the following methods:

  • Open Circumcision Surgery: In open balanoposthitis surgery, surgeons use the traditional method to extract the foreskin. It involves sedating the patient with a local or general anesthetic, measuring the skin to be removed, and cutting it with a scalpel before cauterizing or stitching it back.
  • Laser circumcision surgery: This is a 20-minute-long, minimally-invasive method of circumcision that ensures minimal discomfort. The surgeons use a high-beam laser to cut the foreskin. This procedure is also performed under general or local anesthesia and involves no stitches and minimal blood loss.
  • Stapler circumcision surgery: This is another minimally invasive method that involves foreskin removal using a surgical stapler. The patient is sedated with local or general anesthesia before this balanoposthitis surgery. This procedure does not cause wounds or scars, and the patient is discharged on the same day.

Risks of surgery

Circumcision surgery is generally quite safe and seamless. However, all individuals undergoing this surgery should know its potential risks and complications. We have listed below the complications that might occur during or after a circumcision surgery:

  • Infection is a possible complication after circumcision surgery. The incision site can get infected if it isn’t taken care of. Therefore, all patients are required to take precautionary measures to prevent infections.
  • Patients that are allergic to anesthesia may experience an allergic reaction to it. The usual symptoms of this reaction are nausea, vomiting, and headache.
  • Some patients might notice bleeding from the incision site. This isn’t common but might occur. The bleeding usually stops without medical intervention. However, if it persists, see a doctor immediately.
  • In some cases, the surgeon might cut the skin too short or too long, which can cause discomfort and require another surgery.
  • Circumcision scars or skin issues can occur if the wound fails to heal correctly.
  • In some cases, the foreskin does not reattach properly and may cause a lot of discomforts. This generally requires another surgery.

At HeptaCare Health we treat various foreskin issues by laser circumcision, stapler circumcision and frenuloplasty surgery.

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What is Recurrent Balanoposthitis?

Recurrent balanoposthitis is a condition characterized by repeated episodes of inflammation affecting both the glans penis (balanitis) and the foreskin (posthitis). This condition can cause significant discomfort and complications if not properly managed.

Recurrent balanoposthitis can result from various factors, including:

  • Poor Hygiene – Inadequate cleaning can lead to the buildup of smegma, a substance composed of skin cells, oils, and moisture, which can irritate the glans and foreskin.
  • Infections – Bacterial, fungal (especially Candida), and viral infections are common causes. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also lead to inflammation.
  • Irritants – Chemicals in soaps, detergents, and personal care products can irritate the sensitive skin of the glans and foreskin.
  • Underlying Health Conditions – Diabetes is a significant risk factor due to elevated blood sugar levels that promote bacterial and fungal growth. Phimosis, a condition where the foreskin is too tight, can also contribute to recurrent infections.
  • Allergic Reactions – Allergic responses to latex condoms, lubricants, or certain medications can cause inflammation.
  • Skin Conditions – Dermatitis, psoriasis, and other dermatological conditions can cause chronic inflammation of the glans and foreskin.

Recurrent balanoposthitis can be prevented by:

  • Adopting good hygiene practices
  • Managing chronic conditions like diabetes
  • Avoiding known irritants and allergens
  • Regular medical check-ups for early detection and management of symptoms

Complications

If left untreated, recurrent balanoposthitis can lead to several complications, including:

  • Scarring and narrowing of the foreskin (phimosis)
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Potential for spread of infection to sexual partners
  • Long-term discomfort and pain

Insurance Coverage For Balanoposthitis Treatment

Doctors suggest circumcision surgery for balanoposthitis when non-surgical methods fail to offer respite. Such cases are counted under medical emergencies and covered under insurance. At HeptaCare Health, we offer complete insurance assistance. You can get in touch with our dedicated insurance team to get clarity on insurance coverage for Balanoposthitis.

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