Balanitis is a condition characterized by the swelling of the foreskin or head of the penis. It affects 1 out of 20 males. And while it can occur in both circumcised and uncircumcised men, this occurs more often in those who are uncircumcised. It is typically caused by infection due to poor hygiene. However, over-cleansing may also contribute to skin irritation that may lead to Balanitis.
The infection occurs when bacteria or yeast have grown on the foreskin of the penis due to trapped moisture. Scented soaps and bar soaps that dry the skin and failure in thoroughly rinsing them off could also cause irritation.
Chronic skin conditions can also be an underlying cause for a patient to have Balanitis. Moreover, other health conditions that can cause Balanitis include Reactive Arthritis, Diabetes, and sexually transmitted infections such as Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Trichomonas. Additionally, it can be caused by some types of skin cancer, but cases like this are very rare.
Although this condition may not be serious, the swelling can be painful and cause discomfort.
