and Managing Preputial Issues: Symptoms and Solutions

Q: and Managing Preputial Issues: Symptoms and Solutions

Hello again： After a skin break, it is important to take good care of the wound. <br>Do not use soap or body wash on the affected area. <br>Pay special attention to keeping it clean and dry. <br>Clean the wound daily and pat it dry. <br>If there is a lot of discharge, it may indi

Foreskin issues

Hello, doctor.
A few weeks ago, I think I was too vigorous during masturbation, which led to a stinging pain and redness in a certain area when I was showering.
I ended up washing it with soap.
The next day, I noticed that area was very itchy, and I kept scratching it, resulting in redness and bleeding, and even some pus.
In the following days, the area under the foreskin remained red and itchy.
Although it has improved a lot now, I still experience occasional itching and discomfort.
I'm not sure if I have balanitis.
I also noticed some white discharge, which seems dry, and when I rub it, some flakes come off, but some do not seem to come off, and I wonder if it could be fibrosis.
In the past, I had some smegma and white spots, but it was never this severe.
My brother has diabetes and also has balanitis, but I don't think I have diabetes because I'm very thin, I don't have frequent urination, and urination doesn't cause any discomfort.
I would appreciate your insights on this.
Thank you.

Johnny, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/29

Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology

Hello again: After a skin break, it is important to take good care of the wound.
Do not use soap or body wash on the affected area.
Pay special attention to keeping it clean and dry.
Clean the wound daily and pat it dry.
If there is a lot of discharge, it may indicate ongoing inflammation, and it is advisable to seek medical treatment to prevent it from becoming chronic or recurring frequently.
As for whether there is diabetes, blood tests are necessary for diagnosis.
If diabetes is present, the foreskin is more susceptible to inflammation and can also become chronic.
It is recommended to inform your doctor about any family history of diabetes and to check fasting blood glucose levels.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/29

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be related to a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can involve the prepuce (foreskin). This condition can be caused by several factors, including irritation from soaps or hygiene products, infections (bacterial or fungal), or underlying skin conditions. Given your description of pain, redness, itching, and discharge, it is essential to approach this issue with care.

First and foremost, it is crucial to avoid further irritation to the affected area. This means refraining from aggressive cleaning or scrubbing, as this can exacerbate inflammation and lead to more discomfort. Instead, gentle washing with warm water and avoiding harsh soaps or irritants is advisable. If you have been using soap, consider switching to a mild, unscented soap or simply rinsing with water.

The presence of white discharge or "smegma" (a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture) is common and can accumulate under the foreskin. Regular cleaning can help prevent this buildup, but if you are experiencing significant irritation, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.

In terms of potential underlying conditions, you mentioned a family history of diabetes. While you do not currently exhibit symptoms such as frequent urination or excessive thirst, it is worth noting that diabetes can increase the risk of infections, including balanitis. If you have concerns about your blood sugar levels, consider discussing this with your doctor, who may recommend testing.

If your symptoms persist despite good hygiene practices, or if you notice any worsening of the redness, pain, or discharge, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend treatments such as topical antifungal or antibacterial creams, depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In summary, managing preputial issues involves maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding irritants, and seeking medical advice if symptoms do not improve. It is essential to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that you receive appropriate care and treatment. Remember, early intervention can prevent complications and lead to a quicker resolution of symptoms.

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