What it is
Causes include thrush, bacterial infection, irritation from soaps, and skin conditions. In adults, repeated balanitis can be a sign of diabetes.
Gentle washing with water, avoiding soap, and creams to treat infection or inflammation usually clear it up.
Common signs
- Redness, swelling and soreness of the head of the penis
- Itching
- Discharge or an unpleasant smell under the foreskin
- Pain when peeing
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination
- A swab to check for infection
- A urine or blood sugar test to check for diabetes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Swab results
- Blood sugar results
- Notes of each episode and treatment used
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is causing it?
- Should I be tested for diabetes or sexually transmitted infections?
- What can I do to prevent it coming back?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Being unable to pee
- A foreskin stuck pulled back with the head of the penis swollen (paraphimosis): go to an emergency department
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.