How is balanitis treated? How is the disease balanitis in men treated. Treatment with traditional medicine

Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis. This area is characterized by increased sensitivity and a low degree of protection against pathogens, therefore balanitis of polymicrobial etiology can occur in men of any age, regardless of the presence of intimate relationships in their lives.

Types of balanitis depending on origin

The balanitis in ICD 10 is assigned a code 48.6. In men, this disease can be triggered by a wide range of factors:

• weakened immunity, the inability of the body to control the growth of colonies of microorganisms;
• narrowed or too long foreskin, short bridle, not allowing to completely expose the head;
• tendency to allergies (unpredictable reaction of the epithelium of the head to intimate lubricants or contact contraception);
• systemic, sexually transmitted diseases, against the background of which head inflammation occurs.

Balanitis often precedes postitis (inflammation of the foreskin) or is its consequence. A synchronous lesion of the foreskin and head is called.

Primary balanitis  occurs as a reaction to the multiplication of infection from the prepuce sac or microorganisms entering from outside, and secondary  - a consequence of existing diseases.

Infectious balanitis

Infectious balanitis develops mainly due to insufficient penile hygiene. In the preputial sac, formed by the foreskin around the head, smegma, a light gray substance, constantly accumulates. It is formed mainly by the secretion of the sebaceous glands of the foreskin, as well as cells of dead epithelium, urine salts. All this is a favorable environment for the development of bacteria.

The preputial sac is naturally endowed with its conditionally pathogenic microflora: microorganisms such as staphylococcus, propionic bacteria (provoking acne on the skin), rod-shaped cells (bacteroids) Melaninogenicus (live in the intestines, gum pockets, and oral cavity) can live in it without any manifestations on the genital mucosa). Excessive growth of bacteria in the accumulated smegma causes inflammation of the head.

Frequent washing of the preputial sac with antiseptic agents can lead to an imbalance in the microflora and give impetus to the multiplication of pathogens.

In second place in the frequency of development is candida (fungal) balanitis. Candida mushrooms are part of the conditionally pathogenic microflora, but their peculiarity is that uncontrolled reproduction can begin suddenly: due to stress, hypothermia, excesses with alcohol, with a cold or taking antibiotics. Candy balanitis can be provoked by the abuse of sweets, sexual intercourse (moreover, a woman's tests may be normal). Fungal inflammation is easily distinguishable from other species by the presence of white curdled lumps and flakes on the head, in the region of the coronary groove, at the mouth of the urethra. They emit a characteristic sour smell. The fungus often joins the existing balanitis of another etiology.

Balanitis can occur against a background of diseases transmitted primarily through sexual contact, for example:

•   . Chlamydia provoke the development of circinar gobalanitis, in which red oval spots with clear boundaries are observed on the head;
•   . Trichomonas balanitis usually occurs with an elongated foreskin. A frequent clinical sign is extensive erosion on the head, yellowish foamy purulent discharge from prepuce;
• gardnerellosis urethritis. Against this background, balanitis is manifested by gray discharge from the urethra and prepuce. With strong immunity, symptoms from the head are almost not manifested and are suppressed within 2-3 days;
• mycoplasmal urethritis. Mycoplasma balanitis is similar in appearance to chlamydial;
•   . On the head may appear (deep ulcer), as well as a rash forming erosive foci;
•   (gonorrhea). Gonorrhea balanitis is accompanied by purulent discharge, fever, redness, swelling of the head;
•   . Viral balanitis caused by herpes infection begins with a slight itching, redness, swelling of the head, then on its surface accumulations of bubbles with liquid form. After opening them, extensive surface erosion remains (erythematous form of balanitis).

Inflammation of the head can cause almost any of the genital infections, and conditionally pathogenic microflora leads to balanitis under favorable development conditions.

Non-infectious balanitis

In some cases, inflammation of the head of the penis occurs without the intervention of an external microorganism. Balanitis of non-infectious origin can be caused by damage to the epithelium with frequent masturbation, active sex, and wearing too tight underwear. This is especially true for men with sensitive skin.

Sometimes arises medical balanitis: with prolonged treatment with antibiotics (sulfonamides, tetracyclines), as well as with salicylates, phenolphthalein, phenacetin, and some sleeping pills.

Allergic balanitis  likely not only when using contact contraceptives, lubricants and condoms. Inflammation can also develop on the types of tissue from which underwear is sewn. In some men, female vaginal discharge and even their own sperm cause head irritation.

Balanitis is often a companion to systemic diseases caused by autoimmune disorders. The causes of such pathologies lie in the malfunctioning of the immune system, which destroys the body’s own tissues, due to which chronic dermatoses progress.

Inflammation of the head often occurs with the following diseases:

• vitiligo
• systemic lupus erythematosus;
• scleroderma;
• psoriasis;
• pemphigus;
• alopecia.

The violation of the processes of formation, renewal and regeneration of the skin, a decrease in its protective barriers, a failure in metabolic processes, which is characteristic of these pathologies, affects all types of epithelium, including the head of the penis. It is no coincidence that balanitis recurs in 80% of men with diabetes: urine with a high concentration of glucose constantly irritates the head, and the barrier function of the epithelium is reduced. Characterized by increased bleeding when touched, the appearance of multiple cracks and ulcers.

Symptoms and forms of balanitis

Forms of manifestations of balanitis are not always determined by their etiology, largely depending on the general state of health of the patient.

The first symptom of the onset of inflammation is a slight burning sensation and itching of the head, accompanied by slight redness and swelling. You can detect wet thinned areas of the epithelium. Solitary and grouping red spots gradually appear. This form is called catarrhal  (irritative). The treatment started at this stage is usually effective and quick.

Not all men, at the first signs of balanitis, turn to a urologist, so the catarrhal stage often flows into erosivewhen wet areas turn into swollen whitish formations from dead epithelium. Later, ulcers deepening over time remain in their place. Pathogens from the external environment easily penetrate into damaged skin and begin to actively develop, causing purulent balanitis. At this stage, the man feels a strong burning head, pain. Purulent discharge from the urethra, general weakness, fever, and an increase in inguinal lymph nodes are often noted.

Ulcerative balanitis  can take obliterating form  (obliteration - narrowing, sealing of blood vessels and cavities), in which ulcers begin to heal. At the same time, the head of the penis turns pale, becomes tuberous due to atrophied areas, a feeling of tightness arises, especially when urinating.

Erosive foci, ulcers and pustules (vesicles with inflammatory contents) during relapse can be replaced by atrophied epithelium ( atrophic balanitis) The head is covered with whitish spots.

According to clinical manifestations, they also distinguish xerotic form of balanitisin which hollow nodules (papules) are formed on the head, covered on top with crusts or scales.

Lack of treatment may cause inflammation to gangrenous form: ulcerated head tissue begins to gradually die. At this stage, a threat to the whole organism already arises, in some cases, amputation of a member is necessary.

Acute and chronic balanitis

Acute balanitis  develops rapidly, showing all the main signs: itching, redness, swelling of the head, possibly an increase in temperature, increased sweating. After a short time, rashes or ulcers appear on the scalp, and suppuration is possible. In acute balanitis, urgent medical attention is necessary.

AT chronic form  the disease may pass due to improper or incomplete treatment. A characteristic sluggish course with periodic relapses. Such an outcome is not uncommon for chlamydial and candidal types of inflammation. In some cases, the acute phase is absent, the symptoms are constant. For example, chronic hypertrophic balanitis  manifested by multiple small non-healing ulcerations on the head of the penis, gradually changing its shape.

Rare types of balanitis

Rare forms of lesions of the head of the penis usually occur against the background of immune diseases that cause pathological changes in the skin. They are characterized by slow development and a chronic course.

Xerotic obliterans

This type of balanitis, also called "sclerotrophic lichen," develops in the presence of sclerotic lichen or Reiter's syndrome. The first symptoms are itching and dryness in the foreskin (elasticity is lost, breaks are frequent during sexual intercourse). Gradually, a grayish sclerotic ring appears around the head, formed by atrophied tissues of the foreskin. From it, the “bridges” of connective tissue pass to the head and, gradually growing, give it a white-blue hue. Over time, irreversible atrophy of the skin of the head occurs.

This type of balanitis is fraught with serious complications:

• narrowing of the foreskin and urethra, difficulty urinating;
• the appearance of cracks in the head, its wrinkling (inductive form of balanitis);
• degeneration into a malignant form.

Timely applied treatment regimen allows you to stop the process.

Balanitis Zuna

The exact cause of the development of balanitis Zuna is still unknown. It occurs in men after 50 years. Symptoms: clearly defined glossy plaques of orange-red and brownish color appear on the head, painful sensations are absent at first, but burning and pain appear over time.

Behcet's Disease

With Behcet's disease, the vascular walls are destroyed. The process proceeds in the form of a chronic ulcerative lesion not only of the head of the penis, but also of the scrotum and mucous tissues of the oral cavity. Irregularly shaped ulcers tend to merge, forming extensive painful foci.

Keir erythroplasia

This disease causes a precancerous lesion of the epithelium. On the head of the penis, from 1 to 3 knots of cherry color are formed. Their surface is “velvet” or glossy in appearance, the boundaries are clear. Itching, discomfort, and urination are sometimes difficult. The danger lies in the high probability of degeneration of formations into squamous cell carcinoma. At the same time, erosion, growths, blood crusts appear on the head.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis begins with a visual examination, then tests are prescribed to assess the general condition of the body and identify the pathogen:

• general analysis of urine and blood;
• urine culture;
• scraping and smear from the erosive surfaces of the head of the penis, smear from the urethra for bacterioscopic and bacteriological studies.

It is possible to accurately determine the type of viral infection using PCR diagnostics (polymerase chain reaction). A blood test for organ-specific antibodies helps establish the autoimmune nature of balanitis (systemic dermatoses).

If there is a suspicion of a malignant course of the disease, then a small tissue fragment is taken for histology (cell analysis). A histological examination of the biomaterial also makes it possible to determine the type of cell damage and establish the presence of systemic pathology, including xerotic obliterans balanitis.

Treatment

Treatment of balanitis includes local exposure, oral medication, injections, physiotherapy, and in some cases surgical intervention. The doctor prescribes the scheme individually according to the results of the examination.

At home, to relieve the condition, baths with antiseptics will be useful:

• furatsilin. You can purchase it in the form of a ready-made solution or prepare it yourself: 2 tablets per glass of warm water;
• potassium permanganate  (a pale pink solution is used);
• medicinal herbs: chamomile, oak bark, sage, plantain, succession. Infusion recipe: 1-2 tablespoons of any of the herbs pour a glass of boiling water, wait for cooling;
• chlorophyllipt.

Baths and washes are an addition to the basic therapy prescribed by your doctor.

A universal remedy for various forms of balanitis is ointment " Triderm", Which has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory effects on the affected scalp due to the combination of gentamicin, clotrimazole and betamethasone. A wide spectrum of activity has ointment " Levomekol"(Lefomecetin + methyluracil): a strong antibiotic and at the same time effective restoration of damaged tissues.

For the treatment of candida balanitis, agents with antifungal activity are used: creams " Clotrimazole», « Miconazole"Topically, capsules or injections" Fluconazole". If you are allergic to imidazoles, nystatin is prescribed.

The complex therapy of balanitis includes broad-spectrum antibiotics: Cefazolin, Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone.  With anaerobic bacteria (e.g. Melaninogenicus), it helps Metronidazole, and Co-amoxiclav. The choice of drugs against aerobic bacteria (streptococcus, gardnerella, staphylococcus) depends on the result of the analysis of sensitivity to antibiotics.

With gonorrhea balanitis, prescribe Cefixime, Ofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin. Trichomonas cure Metrogil, Trichopolum. When herpetic prescribed antiviral drugs with acyclovir: Acivir, Virolex, Zovirax. It is effective against the circinar form of balanitis hydrocortisone cream 1%.

With severe itching, inflammation, as well as with autoimmune forms of balanitis, they are used ointments Lorinden, Lokakorten, Lokoid, prednisolone ointment.

In the treatment of Zun balanitis, steroid preparations are used, if they are ineffective, a 2% fusidic acid cream is applied to the head for 8-16 weeks.

The independent use of antibiotics or antifungal agents can aggravate the course of the disease and complicate the diagnosis, and the uncontrolled use of hormonal ointments will cause complications from the endocrine system.

Surgical methods

Surgical methods for balanitis are rarely used, mainly circumcisio surgery - circumcision of the foreskin. The indications are various pathologies of the prepuce sac (too long, narrow), frequent relapses of head inflammation, the presence of systemic diseases. Removing the foreskin solves the problem of accumulation of smegma and the growth of bacteria.

For the treatment of obliterans balanitis, topical steroid preparations are used: clobetasol propionate or betamethasone valerate. If necessary, surgery is used:

• restoration of the physiological lumen of the urethra (myatoplasty);
• restoration of normal patency of the urethra with cicatricial narrowing of the urethra (urethroplasty);
• laser vaporization (cauterization) of damaged areas of the head.

With Keir erythroplasia in unreleased cases, you can limit yourself to laser excision of the affected areas of the epithelium, the use of cytostatic ointments.

Complications

Balanitis is most often complicated by phimosis and paraphimosis (narrowing of the foreskin and its infringement). It is also possible narrowing of the urethra, loss of sensitivity and cicatricial deformation of the head, perforation of the foreskin.

The complicated gangrenous form of balanitis can lead to amputation of the penis followed by excretion of the urethra.

Prevention

To prevent the development of most types of balanitis, it is enough to observe intimate hygiene, use barrier contraceptives during sexual intercourse, and timely sanitize infectious foci in the body. After unprotected sex with an unverified partner, it is better to be safe, washing the prepuce bag, head and urethra Chlorhexidine.

With redness of the scalp, you can take measures at home:

• rinse the head and prepuce bag;
• immerse a member in a bath with an antiseptic solution;
• lubricate the head with Vaseline cream;
• change underwear.

  Most types of balanitis are successfully treated in a few days if the patient consulted a doctor in a timely manner. Modern medicine allows you to effectively deal with the manifestations of systemic diseases, provided that the patient clearly follows the prescribed treatment regimen. However, even an initially simple form of balanitis can lead to serious consequences if treatment is not given due attention.

A disease such as chlamydial balanitis is characterized by inflammation of the head of the male genital organ. the worse case is called when inflammation occurs and the inner lobe of the foreskin, too. This ailment can appear for various reasons, but most often it occurs as a result of unprotected intercourse with an infected partner. As a rule, chlamydial balanoposthitis has several forms of development, which are complicated by diabetes and urethritis.

If male genital inflammation occurs as a result of infection during unprotected sex, then symptoms can be detected immediately. Most often, the disease begins with swelling of the head and its redness. In addition, and can be felt. If the form of the disease is neglected, then the indicated symptoms will also appear at rest.

It is worth noting that chlamydial balanoposthitis is observed much less often than chlamydial balanitis, since the infection affects only the head of the penis to a greater extent, while it does not spread to the foreskin. In such situations, lesions can easily be seen, so there is no particular difficulty in determining the diagnosis. Often, such balanitis is accompanied by edema and redness of the head of the penis, itching and burning can also be felt during intercourse and urination.

Often, chlamydial balanoposthitis is observed in men who suffer from Reiter’s disease, only in such cases the infection does not have a destructive effect on the areas of the skin of the head or organ as a whole. Of course, this does not affect those cases when such a disease appears a second time.

The underlying factor for this type of disease is a congenital anomaly, namely the narrowness of the foreskin. In addition, the cause may be non-compliance with basic rules of personal hygiene or, conversely, excessive use of aggressive detergents.

When treating this type of balanoposthitis, it is important to strictly follow all the doctor’s prescriptions, this directly relates to the course of therapy and the lifestyle in general. Since such inflammation of the genital organ is an STI, the patient’s sexual partner should undergo appropriate treatment.

Chlamydial balanitis treatment

Self-treatment of chlamydial balanitis is unacceptable, since only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and draw up a treatment regimen based on the results of appropriate smear analyzes. Such a smear is taken from the prepuce bag. In each case, certain local drugs, immunomodulators and oral medications are prescribed.

When treating, it is important not to skip the daily penile rinse with warm water and soap. Also, in order to reduce irritation, you can use special creams during intercourse. Most often, treatment of balanitis includes 20 minutes. cool baths with Furacilin solution or with saline. They are carried out 2-3 times a day. After this procedure, the head of the penis and foreskin are smeared with tetracycline, synthomycin or zinc ointment. In addition, you can use Garamycin, as well as drugs containing fish oil.

If the patient has been detected and it is advisable to treat it with metronidazole. Mycoplasma balanoposthitis is treated with large doses of tetracycline. When creating a treatment regimen, corticosteroid ointments are used. In this case, the doctor prescribes a simultaneous course of antifungal or antibacterial drugs.

In addition, physical procedures are often used to treat balanitis. These include ozone therapy, electrophoresis, or infrared laser therapy.

Chlamydial balanitis is a sexually transmitted disease in which, as a result of the life of chlamydia, an inflammatory process develops on the glans penis. With the spread of this pathology to the inner sheet of the foreskin, chlamydial balanoposthitis is diagnosed. It should consider in detail the causes of the disease, symptoms, treatment methods.

Causes

The appearance of chlamydial balanitis and balanoposthitis on the foreskin and head of the penis of a man is associated with his rash sexual contact with a patient with chlamydia.

The source of infection is considered pathogenic bacteria - chlamydia, which under favorable conditions easily multiply on the mucous membranes of the male genital organ. These microbes by the methods of behavior and development occupy an intermediate position between bacteria and viruses. A feature of the development of chlamydial balanoposthitis (in contrast to balanitis) is the addition of other pathogenic microbes to chlamydia. We can name the reasons contributing to the spread of these bacterial infections:

The foreskin is a storehouse of smegma, which, with insufficient observance of personal hygiene rules, is a favorable environment for the reproduction of bacteria. Smegma consists of dead epithelium, sweat, urine, sebaceous secretion, etc.

The neglected form of balanitis and balanoposthitis in men can lead to the spread of infection deep into the body, to damage the epididymis, urethra, prostate, mucous membrane of the eyes, etc.

Symptoms of chlamydial balanitis and balanoposthitis

Balanitis and balanoposthitis caused by chlamydia have a slightly muffled symptomatic picture, not as bright as with other infectious diseases.

The day after infection, a man may appear the first signs of the disease. On the head of the penis arise:

• strictly outlined lesions of red color;
• small swelling;
• itching, soreness, and burning during urination, during intercourse.

At the initial stages of the disease, destruction of the skin in the form of ulcers and erosion does not occur. Swelling and pain are mild.

If the infection is not treated, then after 2 months it becomes chronic. She is characterized by the following symptoms:

• regular discharge from the urethra with an unpleasant odor;
• hyperemia of the mucous membranes of the glans penis and foreskin;
• possible development of phimosis;
• swollen lymph nodes;
• general weakness.

The insidiousness of the infection, which proceeds in a chronic form, consists in the fact that, despite the apparent subsidence, there is a rapid spread of the disease inside the body, and this condition is difficult to treat.

Pathology can last for years, with alternating periods of exacerbation and remission. Over time, a running infection leads to serious complications:

• difficulty urinating;
• erectile dysfunction;
• penis gangrene;
• inguinal lymphadenitis;
•   and etc.

Normal sex life for the patient becomes impossible. The sooner treatment is started, the better the result.

Diagnostics

An experienced venereologist or urologist visually (even from a photo) can determine balanitis or balanoposthitis. But to make an accurate diagnosis with the identification of the true causes and prescribe the necessary treatment is possible only after laboratory studies. For this, biological material is collected from the mucous membranes of the patient's genital organ: scrapings from foci of inflammation, a smear from the prepuce sac, blood, urine, sperm, and discharge from the urethra.

Modern diagnostic methods for studying infectious pathogens of sexually transmitted diseases are:

Cultural analysis, being one of the most accurate diagnostic methods, allows you to determine the sensitivity of the microbe to antibacterial drugs. This facilitates the selection of effective drugs to treat infection.

During the diagnosis, a study is carried out for the presence of STDs in order to exclude such serious sexually transmitted diseases as syphilis, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, etc.

Drug treatment

The treatment is designed to:

• neutralize the causative agents of infection;
• increase the defenses of the patient's body;
• eliminate the inflammatory process;
• prevent complications.

You can get rid of chlamydial balanitis and balanoposthitis only with an integrated approach to solving this problem. The treatment of these infections includes systemic and general agents.

The leading role in the systemic therapy of balanitis and balanoposthitis caused by chlamydia belongs to broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs - Azithromycin and its analogues (Erythromycin, Zitrolex, etc.). The active substance of the antibiotic is easily introduced into the infected cell and adversely affects the pathogenic microbe. Systemic drugs can be prescribed in the form of tablets, intravenous infusions and intramuscular injections. In addition to antibiotics, probiotics are prescribed to reduce the negative effects of drugs on the digestive tract.

In the fight against chlamydia, you can not do without the use of immunomodulators that increase the body's defenses.

The simultaneous use of antibiotics and alcohol is strictly prohibited. The entire period of treatment, the patient should refrain from taking any alcoholic beverages. To avoid re-infection, sexual partners should also take antibacterial therapy.

Local treatment for chlamydial balanitis and balanoposthitis is carried out using:

• antibacterial ointments (,) and creams (, liniment synthomycin);
• antiseptic solutions (Chlorhexidine, Chlorophyllipt,).

Antiseptic solutions have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties. They are prescribed in the form of irrigation, instillations, baths.

Treatment of balanitis and balanoposthitis caused by chlamydia should be carried out at home, but the supervision of the attending physician is necessary. Self-medication will only aggravate the patient's condition. One of the prerequisites for a successful cure for infection is considered to be thorough hygienic care of the genitals.

If serious complications arise, the patient is hospitalized in a medical facility.

Treatment with traditional medicine

As an addition to the traditional therapy of chlamydial balanitis and balanoposthitis, after prior coordination with the attending physician, traditional medicine can be used.

Alternative treatment is based on the elimination of the clinical manifestations of the disease with the help of medicinal plants that have antiseptic, analgesic, healing, anti-inflammatory effects. When using folk remedies, one should not forget about an allergic reaction to some plants.

Of these medicinal plants for therapeutic purposes, antiseptic decoctions are most often prepared. To do this, take 1 tbsp. l crushed dry raw materials, pour water in an amount of 1 liter. Boil for 15-20 minutes over low heat, then insist and filter.

From the funds obtained, you can make baths, lotions, and you can add to water during hygiene procedures.

The juice of some plants (aloe, plantain) can be used in its pure form, only slightly diluted with water.

Conclusion on the topic

Bacterial balanitis and balanoposthitis are sexually transmitted diseases known for serious complications. In order to prevent serious consequences, you should consult a doctor in a timely manner for qualified help.

Balanitis is called inflammation of the glans penis. This is the most common inflammatory disease of the male reproductive system that occurs at any age, including cases of balanitis in children.

Types of balanitis

Balanitis by origin is primary and secondary, by the nature of the course of acute and chronic. According to the clinical manifestation, the following forms of balanitis are distinguished:

• Simple, or irritative;
• Erosive;
• Ulcerative;
• Chronic hypertrophic
• Obliterating balanitis.

Causes of balanitis

The main reason for balanitis is the non-observance of personal hygiene rules, when favorable conditions are created for infection that reaches the genitals. It also matters a decrease in local, and sometimes general immunity. Simple balanitis, if untreated, can turn into erosive, ulcerative and chronic. Obliterating balanitis, as a rule, arises as an independent disease of the primary chronic course, and the causes of its occurrence are still not clear.

Secondary balanitis is only one of the symptoms with which a general disease of the body manifests itself, autoimmune, endocrinological or infectious. There are frequent cases of balanitis in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus, balanitis also occurs, which is a consequence of autoimmune processes - scleroderma, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and others. Of the infectious diseases, balanitis is most often caused by the causative agents of syphilis, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, and also fungi of the genus Candida. Most often this is Candida albicans, the same yeast infection that causes the development of thrush in women, it is also the cause of candida balanitis in men.

Balanitis in children is usually caused by narrowing of the foreskin (phimosis), due to which smegma and urine residues, which serve as an irritating factor, accumulate in the prepuce sac. When an infection is attached, the glans penis (balanitis) becomes inflamed, but in this case it becomes inflamed along with the inner leaf of the foreskin, and balanoposthitis develops.

Symptoms of balanitis

The first symptoms of balanitis are discomfort in the head of the penis: burning, itching, especially when trying to open the head. Redness and swelling of the head becomes visible. In the case of an acute course of the disease, the general worsening of the condition joins the usual symptoms of balanitis: the body temperature rises, a headache appears, and the general tone decreases. Symptoms of balanitis include increased formation of smegma, sometimes its amount is so significant that it impregnates underwear; as well as purulent discharge from the preputial sac.

Symptoms of balanitis in erosive and ulcerative form are, respectively, erosion and ulcers, the erosive form in the absence of treatment becomes ulcer. Erosive and ulcerative balanitis is accompanied by pain in the head of the penis, aggravated by movement.

Candidiasis balanitis is characterized by a strong sense of itching, the appearance of erosion on the glans penis, covered with a whitish coating, upon removal of which a hyperemic surface is exposed. Liquid exudate is released from the preputial sac; white curd flakes may accumulate in the coronal groove area.

Obliterating balanitis manifests itself by the appearance of scarring sites on the scalp. The areas are pale, with atrophied skin, their appearance is accompanied by a feeling of tightness. In the stage of the developed disease, with obliterating balanitis, narrowing (stricture) of the urethra can occur, resulting in impaired urination.

The first sign of balanitis in children, especially in small ones, is the restless behavior of the child. The kid is naughty, his temperature may rise, he reacts violently when trying to expose the glans penis. Inflamed head tissue is painful when urine enters it, so urination may be accompanied by crying.

Diagnosis of balanitis

The diagnosis is usually not in doubt, and for its statement enough symptoms of balanitis identified during examination of the external genitalia. Research is needed only to determine the causative agent of the disease, which is important in the treatment of balanitis. For this purpose, a bacteriological examination of a smear from the urethra is carried out. In case of persistent balanitis, which is not amenable to the usual therapy, a comprehensive diagnosis is carried out: PCR, a blood test for sugar, a study for the presence of STIs (sexually transmitted infections).

Treatment of balanitis

Treatment of balanitis, not complicated by purulent inflammation, is usually limited to the use of local antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs. Careful hygiene of the penis is recommended, for which it is necessary to expose the head, rinse it thoroughly with warm water and soap containing a minimum amount of perfume, then pat it dry with gentle movements with a soft towel. Such procedures must be carried out every 3-4 hours. Local treatment of balanitis is supplemented by washing the glans penis with antiseptic solutions: a weak solution of potassium permanganate, hydrogen peroxide, decoctions of medicinal herbs of antiseptic action (sage, chamomile, eucalyptus).

Treatment of balanitis in erosive form, in addition to the above funds, is carried out using anti-inflammatory ointments that are applied to the affected area 2-3 times a day after hygiene procedures.

If the disease is complicated by lymphadenitis (inflammation of the lymph nodes), or goes into ulcerative necrotic, gangrenous forms, topical treatment of balanitis is carried out in combination with the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, a course of 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the process.

With candida balanitis, an ointment containing an antibiotic of antifungal action is applied to the naked head, and a diet with a reduced amount of easily digestible carbohydrates (sweets, sweet soda, juices) is also recommended.

Obliterating balanitis is treated depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages of a fairly long course of use of ointments containing anti-inflammatory hormones. At the stage of the appearance of narrowing of the urethra, surgical treatment of balanitis is performed, eliminating the narrowing and removing areas of the skin that underwent scarring.

Treatment of balanitis in children is carried out locally, washing the head of the penis with antiseptic solutions. For this purpose, babies can be planted several times a day in a bath with a decoction of medicinal herbs, previously at least slightly exposing the head.

If it is established that one of the causes of inflammation of the glans penis is the existing phimosis, surgical treatment of balanitis and phimosis is performed by performing circumcisio surgery to excise the foreskin, or, as it is also called, circumcision.

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Balanitis is a dangerous ailment that affects the head of the male genital organ. The disease is diagnosed among men at any age. Quite often, inflammation can spread to the foreskin. In this situation, balanoposthitis is formed. The manifestations of the disease should not be ignored, because in the absence of timely and correct therapy, the pathological process can spread to the entire organ.

In men, balanitis occurs with damage to the head of the penis. The disease is diagnosed in adulthood. However, the formation of the disease is possible among boys.

The main risk groups include the following categories:

1. Young men leading promiscuous sex lives.
2. Representatives of the strong half, non-hygienic rules.
3. Men with impaired immunity and autoimmune pathologies.

The disease is accompanied by intense itching and pain in the penis.

The causes of the formation of the disease are mainly injuries to the genital organ or pathogenic microorganisms. Medicine distinguishes the primary and secondary form of the disease. Primary balanitis is usually formed due to infection.

Propagation of pathogenic microorganisms leads to the accumulation of smegma in the foreskin. This white substance is characterized by a curd texture. Smegma is a suitable environment for the life of bacteria. It can provoke irritation with inflammation. Secondary balanitis is formed due to infection from the urethra.

The main reason for the formation of balanitis in men is the accumulation of smegma (see photo).

Local provoking factors include:

• phimosis;
• urethritis and other infectious pathologies of the urinary system;
• irradiation of the skin with radiation therapy;
• neglect of hygiene rules;
• allergies
• penis injury, for example, during masturbation;
• anemia
• hypervitaminosis or vitamin deficiency;
• pathologies accompanied by impaired metabolism, blood circulation and lymph flow;
• regular urine penis irritation. Often observed in men with diabetes.

In addition, there are also infectious factors for the formation of balanitis:

1. The penetration of pathogenic fungi, bacteria and viruses. This includes streptococci, yeast, mycoplasmas, staphylococci, etc.
2. Sexually transmitted diseases: syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea.
3. Dermatological pathologies on the genital organ: psoriasis, seborrheic or contact dermatitis, Keira disease.

In addition, autoimmune and genetic disorders are provoking factors.

A child may suffer from balanitis due to phimosis or neglect of hygiene rules.

The disease is characterized by the following symptoms:

• acute pain in the penis;
• painful itching in the affected area;
• swelling and redness of the head;
• difficult and painful deurination.

In the presence of a purulent process, purulent discharge appears from the head, accompanied by a fetid odor.

As a result of the disease, inflammation of the lymph nodes and the formation of ulcers on the mucosa occur. The temperature in such situations may not rise. In advanced situations, significant tissue edema occurs, phimosis and penile tissue death may develop.

Balanitis in men proceeds in several stages:

1. Simple. It occurs with redness and swelling of the head. Minor purulent discharge may be observed.
2. Erosive. The formation of erosion and dying zones on the skin is noted.
3. Ulcerative or gangrenous. Penis ulcers with purulent contents. There is an increase in temperature, general weakness and malaise. This condition is dangerous for the development of phimosis.

Given the mechanism of flow, the following forms of balanitis are distinguished:

• initial. Discomfort, excruciating itching, burning, and swelling are noted. If you want to cover the head, the manifestations of the disease intensify;
• spicy. In addition to the above manifestations, headaches occur, the temperature rises. General weakness is noted;
• chronic Symptoms become resistant. Urethral discharge, cracks are observed.

Each of the above forms of the disease can occur with complications and without them. There have been cases of asymptomatic disease.

Balanitis is classified taking into account the causes of development into candida, erosive, circinar, allergic, xerotic and chlamydial.

And also distinguish the following types of ailment:

• thermal. It occurs due to thermal burns;
• mechanical. Appears after injuries and mechanical stresses;
• ray. It develops as a result of radiation therapy;
• herpetic. It occurs due to the negative effects of herpes infection.

Consider more detailed common types of disease.

The root cause of the formation of the disease is yeast-like fungi. In women, these microorganisms provoke the development of vulvitis.

Provoking factors include:

• impaired metabolism;
• diabetes;
• ignoring hygiene rules;
• promiscuous sexual acts;
• synthetic underwear;
• weakening of the immune system and hypovitaminosis;
• unprotected intercourse;
• phimosis;
• prolonged use of hormonal or antibacterial drugs.

The first signs of the disease are swelling of the head, as well as the occurrence of itching and burning.

Characteristic manifestations of the disease are also considered:

• the occurrence of persistent fetid odor;
• erosion;
• curdled discharge;
• white coating.

Treatment should be given to both sexual partners. .

To combat the pathological process, as a rule, antifungal medications, immunomodulators and probiotics are prescribed.

Balanitis is able to proceed in a latent form, without manifestations. However, a man is considered a carrier of infection and must undergo a therapeutic course for treatment.

Xerotic balanitis

Medicine does not yet know the reasons for the formation of this form of the disease. It is assumed that the disease develops due to a genetic predisposition, hormonal changes in autoimmune processes or infectious pathologies.

The disease, as a rule, proceeds with the following symptoms:

1. The appearance of sclerotic plaques.
2. The appearance of vesicles on the head of the penis.
3. Difficult urination and sluggish stream.
4. Cracking.

The initial stages of the disease are treated by circumcision.

With the progression of the disease, a narrowing of the urinary canal is noted. In these situations, a meatotomy is used. At the last stages of development, the doctor prescribes plastic surgery.

The causes of the formation of circinoma balanitis include: microbes, bacteria and chlamydia. The disease is characterized by swelling of the penis and the appearance of erosion, which eventually merge and form large foci of inflammation. The latter are characterized by clear boundaries.

When the pathological process turned into a chronic form, erosion takes the form of gray-white spots. A neglected form of the disease can cause gangrene.

Itching and burning in the urinary canal, impaired deurination with this form of the disease are rare. Balanitis in men - treatment depends on the type of pathogen. If the disease is caused by fungi or bacteria, the doctor prescribes antimicrobial drugs and antibacterial drugs.

Allergic balanitis

This form of the disease is considered the most common. Allergies can occur as a result of a reaction to contraceptives, hygiene products, medicines or food.

In addition to excruciating itching and burning, the allergic form proceeds with the following symptoms:

1. Irritation of the tissues of the penis.
2. The appearance of spots and slight redness.

Purulent urethral discharge with allergic balanitis is uncharacteristic.
  For therapy, antibacterial drugs, baths with antiseptics, vitamin therapy, avoidance of contact with allergens are used.

The causative factors of this form of the disease are:

• the specifics of the anatomical structure;
• masturbation;
• infections
• urethral inflammation;
• chronic pathologies;
• phimosis.

The erosive form of the disease proceeds with excruciating itching, burning and the following symptoms:

• malaise and fever;
• headaches;
• impaired appetite;
• the formation of inflammatory foci on the head of the penis.

If untreated, gangrenous balanoposthitis may develop.

How to treat erosive balanitis in men? With an easy course of the disease, the doctor prescribes corticosteroid ointments, washing the penis with antiseptic solutions. With a complicated course of erosive balanitis, antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention are prescribed.

Usually, infection occurs due to unprotected intercourse with an infected partner. Provoking factors include the anatomical features of the urethra. This form is characterized by mild manifestations.

The main signs of pathology are:

1. Hyperemia and swelling of the head of the penis.
2. Burning and itching, aggravated by urination and sexual intercourse.

With the progression of the disease, the symptoms intensify and are observed at rest.

Possible complications and disease prevention

In the absence of proper and timely treatment, balanitis can provoke the development of the following complications:

• infectious pathologies of the kidneys or bladder;
• loss of sensitivity of the glans penis;
• penis gangrene;
• inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes;
• metal stenosis;
• narrowing of the foreskin.

To avoid the development of balanitis, a man follows these simple rules:

1. Stick to personal hygiene. Every day, change clothes and wash the penis.
2. Promptly treat urinary tract diseases.
3. Wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics.
4. Apply quality hygiene products.
5. Avoid promiscuity and use condoms for any sexual contact.

Important prevention of intestinal pathologies and diabetes.

If it is impossible to expose the glans penis, a man should immediately consult a doctor.

After assessing the symptoms of the disease for diagnosis, the doctor uses the following diagnostic methods:

1. Bacteriological smear analysis. The biomaterial is taken from the urethra. This study helps to identify and determine the type of pathogen.
2. General and biochemical analysis of blood.
3. General analysis of urine.
4. A study of blood sugar.

Be sure to prescribe tests for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan. Based on the results of the tests, the doctor can determine the stage of the disease, as well as prescribe effective treatment.

For antibiotic therapy, as a rule, the following tablets are used: Levomycetin and Erythromycin, Biseptol and Nitroxolin, as well as Furagin.

• Levomekol;
• Zinc ointment;
• Pimafucort;
• Tetracycline ointment;
• Triderm or Akriderm;
• Betamethasone;
• Zalain.

In addition to compresses, baths and washes, such antiseptics are effective:

• Hydrogen peroxide;
• Miramistin;
• Chlorhexidine;
• Potassium permanganate.

Balanitis with timely diagnosis responds well to therapy. The doctor will select an effective treatment regimen taking into account the form of the disease.

When the inflammatory process proceeds in mild forms, it is recommended to regularly wash, apply baths.

After the procedure, the affected area should be powdered with any of the following drugs:

• Xeroform;
• Tannin;
• Silver nitrate;
• Boric acid.

When the pathological process subsides, the inguinal zone must be treated with such ointments:

1. Corticosteroid.
2. Dexamethasone.
3. Zinc ointment with silver content.

The above funds must be applied several times a day. Daily means need to be alternated.

Candida balanitis therapy

To combat yeast-like fungi, you can use laundry soap, because in the alkaline sphere microorganisms are not able to multiply.

Such ointments will help cure candidal balanitis:

• Nizoral;
• Lamisil.

In certain situations, the doctor prescribes antifungal medications, such as fluconazole or flucostat.

With an erosive or ulcerative form of the disease, the doctor prescribes the treatment of the affected area with antiseptics.

For topical treatment, the following ointments are used:

1. Clotrimazole. Effectively used to combat pathology caused by Trichomonas infection.
2. Tetracycline. It is prescribed if the disease is provoked by mycoplasma.
3. Levomikol. It has a complex effect due to the components in the composition.

Erythromycin, Synthomycin, Garamycin and Fusidin ointment are also used for treatment.

If genital infections are present, the doctor prescribes the oral administration of the antimicrobial agent Metronidazole.

Treatment of gangrenous balanitis

With a severe course of the disease, the doctor prescribes a comprehensive treatment. Damaged areas are treated with hydrogen peroxide. To relieve inflammation, ointments and creams are used that contain synthetic corticosteroids and antibiotics. For the blockade of inflammation, injection of antibiotics is prescribed. The duration of such antibiotic therapy is 2 weeks.

Together with antibiotic therapy, vitamin complexes and immunostimulating procedures are prescribed, such as electrophoresis or blood irradiation.

This form of the disease affects the nervous system. The disease is accompanied by intolerant itching and a burning sensation. All this causes an increase in nervousness and irritability. A man begins to suffer from insomnia.

For the treatment of allergic balanitis, the doctor recommends taking antihistamines:

1. In the form of hormonal ointments for external use: Advantan, Prednisolone, Lokoid. Any of these funds should be applied in the evenings to the affected area. The course of treatment is 4-7 days.
2. For intravenous administration: preparations with calcium, corticosteroid drugs, sodium thiosulfate sodium.

After reducing the manifestations of the disease, the therapeutic course is recommended to continue for at least another week to avoid relapse.

Treatment of the disease at home

Balanitis is an inflammatory disease, dangerous for its complications, so it is not recommended to carry out treatment at home. One of the frequent complications of balanitis is phimosis, when surgical intervention is required for treatment.

If the ailment proceeds in a mild form, then treatment is allowed to be carried out at home. However, it is important to adhere to all the doctor's recommendations.

As a rule, for treatment, the doctor prescribes:

1. Regular washing of the penis with soapy water.
2. Treatment of the head of the penis with an antiseptic: hydrogen peroxide or furatsilinom.
3. Cleansing the penis from the collected smegma.
4. Applying ointments and creams.
5. Occupation by moderate exercise.
6. Strengthening the immune system.

Alternative methods for treatment

Traditional medicine alone is not able to cure an illness, however, in combination with drug therapy, it helps to reduce the manifestations of the disease.

Before choosing folk methods, you should definitely consult a doctor. The most common recipes are listed in the table.

Plant	How to use
Aloe	A leaf of a plant is washed, peeled. The cleaned sheet must be applied for 15-20 minutes to the inguinal zone. The procedure is recommended to be performed twice a day
Sage	An infusion is prepared for treatment. 2 tbsp. tablespoons of grass pour 500 ml of boiling water and leave to infuse for half an hour. The resulting product is filtered before use. Infusion is used for compresses of the damaged area. The compress should be kept for 20-25 minutes
St. John's wort	Well established broth. It should be diluted 1 tbsp. a spoon of plant in 200 ml of water. The tool is used for baths
Calendula	For treatment, an infusion of calendula with olive oil is prepared. The tool is effective against erosion and ulcers. For cooking, mix 1 tbsp. a spoonful of flowers with 200 ml of hot oil. The mass should be infused for 2-3 weeks in the heat. The mixture is then filtered and used to lubricate the affected area.
Plantain	This plant is an effective fight against inflammation. The leaves are washed and wrinkled until juice is formed. Apply plantain in dressings. The procedure must be performed at least three times a day.
Oak bark	For the treatment of preparing a decoction. 1 tablespoon of raw materials need to pour 500 ml of water and cook over low heat for 20 minutes. Leave the resulting drink for 20 minutes to infuse. Next, the tool is filtered. Apply a decoction for baths or penis washes. Procedures recommended 3 times a day for a week
Dill	Prepare a healing broth. 20 g of roots need to pour 200 ml of boiling water and cook for 15 minutes. Means to cool, strain. Apply for poultices

Regular use of the above folk recipes helps to significantly reduce the negative manifestations of the disease and improve the patient's condition.

Balanitis is a dangerous disease that requires timely and proper treatment. If you ignore the disease, then gangrene or sepsis may develop. Do not self-medicate and at the first signs of the disease you need to visit a doctor. After the therapy, a man can return to a full life.