Preputial Discomfort: When to Seek Urological Care

Q: Preputial Discomfort: When to Seek Urological Care

Jia： It may be due to improper cleaning. Care for the glans and foreskin： 1. Clean the glans several times a day. 2. It is best to clean any urine residue after each urination; if that's not convenient, simply pat the area dry. 3. Cleaning method： ********

Smegma can cause itching?

If you experience itching and notice smegma in the area of the foreskin and glans during your daily showers, despite regular cleaning, it may be advisable to seek medical attention.
Persistent itching and the presence of smegma could indicate an underlying issue, such as a possible infection or inflammation.
A healthcare professional can provide a proper evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

Jia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/15

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Jia: It may be due to improper cleaning.
Care for the glans and foreskin: 1.
Clean the glans several times a day.
2.
It is best to clean any urine residue after each urination; if that's not convenient, simply pat the area dry.
3.
Cleaning method: * use only cold water Absolutely do not use soap, body wash, or any cleaning agents.
If you feel dryness, you can apply a small amount of petroleum jelly, baby oil, or a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer.
4.
If this issue occurs frequently, there may be other underlying problems, and it is advisable to seek professional medical advice.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion.
Answers found online should only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should visit a medical institution.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/12/15

More Info

Preputial discomfort, particularly when accompanied by symptoms such as itching and the presence of smegma (the whitish substance that can accumulate under the foreskin), can be indicative of several underlying conditions. It is commendable that you are maintaining good hygiene by washing daily, as this is crucial for preventing irritation and infections. However, persistent discomfort or changes in the area warrant further evaluation.

When to Seek Urological Care
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the itching and discomfort persist despite regular cleaning, it is advisable to consult a urologist. Persistent symptoms can indicate conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans), phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin), or infections that may require medical intervention.

2. Changes in Appearance: If you notice any changes in the appearance of the skin under the foreskin, such as redness, swelling, or lesions, this could signal an infection or other dermatological issues that need to be addressed.

3. Discharge or Odor: The presence of unusual discharge or a foul odor can indicate an infection, which may require treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications.

4. Difficulty Retracting the Foreskin: If you experience pain or difficulty when trying to retract the foreskin, this could be a sign of phimosis, which may require medical evaluation and possibly treatment.

5. Systemic Symptoms: If you experience fever, chills, or other systemic symptoms along with local discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Potential Causes of Preputial Discomfort
- Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial or fungal), or irritants. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and discomfort.

- Smegma Accumulation: While smegma is a natural substance, excessive accumulation can lead to irritation and infection. Regular cleaning is essential, but if irritation persists, further evaluation may be necessary.

- Infections: Both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and non-STI infections can cause discomfort and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

- Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as psoriasis or eczema can also affect the genital area, leading to discomfort and requiring specific treatments.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Urologist: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including swabs or cultures if an infection is suspected.

2. Hygiene Practices: Continue your hygiene routine, ensuring that you gently clean the area under the foreskin. Avoid harsh soaps or irritants that could exacerbate the itching.

3. Avoid Irritants: Be cautious with products that may irritate the genital area, including scented soaps, lotions, or detergents.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in symptoms, including the severity of itching, the presence of discharge, or any new symptoms that may arise.

In conclusion, while maintaining good hygiene is essential, the persistence of your symptoms suggests that a visit to a urologist is warranted. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment for any underlying conditions.

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