Why is the foreskin often inflamed?

Frequent inflammation of the foreskin may be related to factors such as poor local hygiene, excessive foreskin, bacterial infection, fungal infection, decreased immunity and other factors. Foreskin inflammation usually presents with symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, itching, and increased secretions. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly to identify the cause and standardize treatment.

1. Poor local hygiene

Insufficient daily cleaning can easily lead to the accumulation of smegma, which can breed bacteria and cause inflammation. It is recommended to wash the head of the penis and the inside of the foreskin with warm water every day and avoid using irritating lotions. Keep dry after washing and choose cotton underwear with good breathability. If there is slight redness and swelling, you can temporarily rinse and observe with normal saline.

2. Foreskin is too long

Excessive foreskin or phimosis will create a moist environment between the inner plate of the foreskin and the glans, increasing the probability of bacterial growth. This condition may be accompanied by difficulty urinating and recurring urinary tract infections. Mild cases can be improved by manual upward cleaning, while severe cases need to consider circumcision. After surgery, you need to use erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, etc. as directed by your doctor to prevent infection.

3. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are common causes, mostly caused by unclean sex or contact with contaminated items. Typical symptoms include purulent discharge and burning sensation. After diagnosis, antibiotics such as cefixime dispersible tablets and levofloxacin tablets must be used, together with potassium permanganate solution for sitz bath.

4. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection is common in patients with diabetes or those who have been taking antibiotics for a long time. It manifests as white bean dregs-like discharge and severe itching. Antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole cream and miconazole nitrate powder need to be used, and blood sugar should be controlled at the same time. Partners need to be treated simultaneously to avoid cross-infection.

5. Decreased immunity

When you stay up late, are stressed, or suffer from chronic diseases, the body's resistance is reduced and inflammation can easily be induced. This type of situation often recurs and may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fatigue and low fever. In addition to symptomatic treatment, it is necessary to adjust work and rest, supplement vitamins, and check HIV and other immune deficiency-related indicators if necessary.

You should avoid wearing tight pants on a daily basis, clean yourself before and after sex, and do not share towels with others. Reduce the intake of spicy foods and supplement vitamin C and zinc appropriately. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days or symptoms such as fever or ulcers occur, seek medical attention immediately. Diabetic patients need to pay special attention to blood sugar control and regularly review urine routine. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment until symptoms completely disappear.