Suspected phimosis?
I have elevated blood sugar levels, with my HbA1c around 6.3.
Aside from occasionally feeling thirsty, I don't have many other symptoms.
Previously, my foreskin completely covered the glans, and I could retract it back to the coronal sulcus during an erection, although it was quite tight.
Recently, I suspect I have glans inflammation (which I haven't experienced before).
The glans is very red, and there is a white, sticky discharge that forms a thin film over the glans, making it difficult to clean.
Initially, I felt occasional pain while urinating, but it didn't last long.
I later noticed that this issue has been intermittent, and upon closer inspection, the glans is very red, with a significant amount of smegma.
Occasionally, there is also a white membrane covering the glans, which is hard to clean.
I thought it might improve after a few days.
At first, I could retract the foreskin to the coronal sulcus for cleaning, but in the past few days, aside from when I shower and have water lubrication, it has become very difficult to retract the foreskin.
I can barely expose the urethral opening, and forcing it back causes pain.
However, the glans is not as red as it was a few days ago.
1.
I would like to ask what might be going on.
Can you provide me with a preliminary assessment? I would like to have some understanding of my condition, and if possible, I would prefer not to see a doctor due to my busy work schedule.
2.
Since I need to retract the foreskin to the coronal sulcus during an erection and it feels tight and uncomfortable, is there a need for surgery? If so, what type of surgery would be recommended to ensure a quicker recovery without impacting my daily life? Thank you.
Cathay, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/09/28
Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
Recurrent infections may lead to phimosis.
It is recommended to visit a urology clinic for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
If the phimosis is significant, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Reply Date: 2014/09/28
More Info
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). This can lead to various symptoms and complications, particularly if it is associated with inflammation or infection. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to phimosis, including difficulty retracting the foreskin, redness of the glans, and the presence of a white, sticky discharge.
Symptoms of Phimosis
1. Difficulty Retracting the Foreskin: As you mentioned, you can retract the foreskin to some extent, but it feels tight and uncomfortable, particularly during an erection.
2. Redness and Inflammation: The glans appears red and inflamed, which can indicate a condition known as balanitis, often associated with phimosis.
3. Discharge: The presence of a white, sticky discharge can be a sign of smegma accumulation, which is a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture that can build up under the foreskin.
4. Pain or Discomfort: You noted occasional pain during urination, which may be exacerbated by the tightness of the foreskin.
Causes of Phimosis
Phimosis can be caused by several factors:
- Congenital: Some males are born with a tight foreskin that does not retract easily.
- Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as balanitis can lead to scarring and tightening of the foreskin.
- Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning can lead to smegma buildup, which can irritate the glans and foreskin.
Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: If the symptoms are mild, practicing good hygiene by gently cleaning the area can help. You may also consider using topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and help with foreskin retraction.
2. Stretching Exercises: Gradual stretching of the foreskin may improve retraction over time. This should be done gently to avoid pain or injury.
3. Surgical Options: If conservative measures fail and you continue to experience discomfort or recurrent infections, surgical intervention may be necessary. The two common procedures are:
- Circumcision: This involves the complete removal of the foreskin and is a definitive solution for phimosis.
- Preputioplasty: This is a less invasive procedure that involves widening the opening of the foreskin without removing it entirely.
When to See a Doctor
While it may be tempting to avoid medical consultation due to a busy schedule, it is advisable to seek medical advice, especially since you are experiencing symptoms of inflammation and discomfort. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your specific situation.
Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing phimosis, potentially complicated by balanitis. While conservative measures may provide relief, surgical options are available if the condition persists or worsens. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to ensure proper management and to prevent complications such as recurrent infections or pain. Taking care of your health should always be a priority, even amidst a busy work schedule.
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