Most men will experience a red, itchy penis from time to time. Swelling, itching and inflammation of the penis is understood by the general term balanitis, a Greek word that means”swollen acorn.” Regardless of this intimidating-sounding title, an inflamed, sore penis is generally nothing quite serious, and typically, it can be treated easily by following a set penis maintenance routine.

Symptoms

What are the signs of balanitis? Because these symptoms may also be brought on by numerous other penile issues, some of them serious, it’s important to get checked out by a physician. Oftentimes, doctors will have the ability to diagnose the issue via a visual evaluation; they might also advocate lab tests whenever they suspect that a more intricate issue. What causes the swelling, itching and pain? Balanitis is more common in uncircumcised men, and typically, it’s simply an issue of inadequate hygiene.

Men have a tendency to accumulate a substance called smegma beneath the foreskin; this pasty material consists of dead skin cells, body oils and urine which has become trapped beneath the skin. If it’s not washed away frequently, it may attract bacteria that like to feed itthis activates the body’s immune system reaction and causes redness, inflammation and itching. On a less common, but still common basis, balanitis may be due to thrush – an infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast.

Thrush

It can develop on the penile skin, or guys may be exposed to it through unprotected contact with an infected partner. Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis may also cause irritation and soreness, as can exposure to chemical irritants found in many laundry detergents, soaps, shower gels and body lotions. How is balanitis handled? Treatment for balanitis generally involves keeping the penis clean and dry and preventing contact with known irritants.

Soaking in a saltwater bath might help to remove bacteria and fungal spores quickly; just add a few handfuls of normal salt into the bathwater and soak for 15 minutes or so. Bath salts, beads and oils should be avoided, as these can really irritate the penile skin further. For cases that don’t respond to cleansing alone, physicians may suggest a cortisone cream; those ought to be used only as directed, and for no more than the proposed time period for therapy.

Keep in mind

Can balanitis be averted?

• Use unscented, hypoallergenic cleansers. Keeping the penis clean is important, but goods that contain detergents, fragrances, alcohol and other harsh chemicals can actually do more harm than good. Using a gentle cleanser, rather than regular soaps or scented shower gels, can decrease the chance of drying and irritation.
• Allow your skin to breathe. Skin that’s warm and moist provides the ideal environment for fungal spores and bacteria to flourish in. Drying skin thoroughly after bathing and wearing breathable fabrics such as cotton are important for preventing thrush and other fungal infections.
• Use unscented, hypoallergenic laundry detergents. Men with sensitive skin are particularly prone to irritation, and even laundry detergents and fabric softeners can result in swelling, itching and soreness of the penile skin. Substituting regular laundry detergents with these created for sensitive skin is favored.
• Use a condom. Covering up during sexual contact can reduce the risk that a person will contract thrush from a spouse; condoms are also crucial for protecting against STIs that may also lead to symptoms such as itching, swelling and pain.
• Try a penis health lotion (caregivers advocate Man1 Man Oil). Skin that’s soft and well-hydrated is significantly more resistant to aggravation; a product which has natural, plant-based moisturizers like Shea butter is great for protecting and moisturizing the penile tissues. Quality creams which are enriched with vitamins and antioxidants may also increase the body’s natural defenses, helping to fight yeast and fungal infections that may cause a sore, red, itchy penis.