Balanitis
Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis. It can happen if there's a buildup of germs under the foreskin. These germs could be bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can also occur from exposure to soaps and other chemicals. In adults, this is most often a complication of diabetes. It can also be due to obesity or poor genital cleaning habits.
If not treated right away, this can lead to a condition called phimosis. This means you can't pull back the foreskin from the head of the penis.
Symptoms of balanitis may include:
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Penis pain or soreness.
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Itching or burning sensation.
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Discharge.
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Inability to retract the foreskin.
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Trouble peeing.
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Thick, leathery skin (lichenification).
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Inability to get an erection (erectile dysfunction or impotence).
Home care
The following guidelines will help you care for your condition at home:
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If you can retract your foreskin:
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Children. Retract the foreskin and clean with water. Put antibiotic cream or ointment on the penis 3 times a day.
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Adults. Retract the foreskin and clean with water. Apply clotrimazole cream to the penis 2 times a day unless another medicine was prescribed. You can buy this cream over the counter. Don't have sex while being treated.
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Sitz baths. Soak the penis and foreskin in warm water while there is inflammation.
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Corticosteroid creams may be prescribed.
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Oral antibiotics may be given in severe cases. You may need antibiotics if you have a sexually transmitted infection like chlamydia or gonorrhea or if phimosis prevents topical treatment.
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If you have diabetes, talk with your health care provider about keeping your diabetes in good control.
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If you're overweight, talk with your provider about a weight-loss plan.
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Avoid frequent and aggressive washing with soap.
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Avoid allergens such as latex condoms, lubricants, and detergents used to wash underwear.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your provider as advised.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your provider right away if:
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You can't return the retracted foreskin to the forward position (get medical care right away).
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You can't retract the foreskin.
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Your symptoms get worse.
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Urine flow is partly or fully blocked.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Lalitha Kadali
Online Medical Reviewer:
Melinda Murray Ratini DO
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
4/1/2025
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