Balanitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Frequent Urination Explained

Hello, doctor. I have some concerns I would like to inquire about?

Hello Doctor, two months ago I noticed a patch of dark red skin on my glans that looked different from the surrounding skin.
It appeared to be peeling, so I didn't think much of it.
However, after two months, it still looks the same and seems to have increased in size.
During this time, I've also experienced a significant increase in urinary urgency, often needing to use the restroom multiple times, sometimes just minutes after having just gone.
There are days when I need to urinate more than ten times.
Today, I visited a urologist at the hospital, and after a brief examination, the doctor diagnosed me with balanitis and prescribed an oral medication called Xibaoxin capsules and a topical ointment called Weikang'en cream.
I would like to ask the doctor, what type of balanitis does my condition represent? Additionally, can an infection like balanitis cause increased urinary urgency? What could be the reason for my frequent urge to urinate?

Xiao Bai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/30

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

If the urine test shows inflammation, it indicates cystitis.
This can lead to frequent urination and a red glans, which may suggest balanitis.
A proper examination is necessary for confirmation.
The Xinbao Xin capsules are acceptable, but based on your description, I do not recommend the Weikang'en ointment.
It is advisable to consult a urologist for medication.

1.
Avoid wearing tight and warm clothing.

2.
It is recommended to wash only with plain water and avoid any chemical substances on the glans.
Try this for a period of time.

3.
After showering, use a hairdryer to dry the area before applying medication.

4.
Make sure to dry the area after urination.

Reply Date: 2016/03/30

More Info

Balanitis, or inflammation of the glans penis, can manifest through a variety of symptoms, and your experience aligns with some common presentations. The dark red patch you observed on your glans, which has persisted and possibly enlarged over two months, is a concerning sign that warrants medical attention. Balanitis can be caused by several factors, including infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or underlying medical conditions (like diabetes or skin disorders).

The symptoms you described, particularly the frequent urge to urinate, can indeed be associated with balanitis. When the glans is inflamed, it can lead to discomfort and irritation, which may cause you to feel like you need to urinate more often. This is because the inflammation can affect the nerves in the area, leading to a heightened sensation of urgency. Additionally, if there is any associated infection, it can irritate the bladder or urethra, further contributing to the frequent urge to urinate.

In your case, the doctor diagnosed you with balanitis and prescribed oral medication (信保欣膠囊, which is likely an antifungal or antibiotic) and a topical ointment (衛康恩軟膏, which may contain corticosteroids or other soothing agents). These treatments aim to reduce inflammation and address any underlying infection.

It's important to note that while balanitis itself can lead to increased urinary frequency, other conditions could also be at play. For example, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause similar symptoms, including frequent urination and a burning sensation during urination. If the inflammation from balanitis is severe, it could also lead to secondary issues, such as urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra that can cause increased urinary frequency.

To manage your symptoms effectively, consider the following recommendations:
1. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: Ensure you complete the full course of any prescribed medications, even if symptoms improve before finishing the treatment. This helps prevent recurrence or resistance.

2. Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid using harsh soaps or irritants that could exacerbate the condition.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the appearance of the glans, the frequency of urination, and any new symptoms like pain or discharge. If symptoms persist or worsen, follow up with your healthcare provider.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out any potential irritants from your urinary tract and may alleviate some urinary urgency.

5. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that certain products (like soaps, lotions, or condoms) may be irritating your skin, consider discontinuing their use and see if your symptoms improve.

6. Consider Underlying Conditions: If you have other health issues, such as diabetes, that could predispose you to infections or skin problems, managing those conditions is crucial.

In conclusion, while your symptoms are consistent with balanitis, the increased urinary frequency could be a direct result of the inflammation or an indication of a concurrent condition. It’s essential to maintain communication with your healthcare provider to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. If symptoms persist despite treatment, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other potential causes.

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