Patient's question:
I am 29 years old. I had this condition once two years ago, and it took a year to heal. Now I have gotten it again. The head of my penis is always red, and it has been almost a year with no improvement. At first, it was very severe, with small bumps on top. Although they are gone now, it is still red. Besides the slight layer, it comes with a burning sensation. Also, when I drink beer, I feel a strong urge to urinate. Besides the swelling, I should mention that I have a sexual history. I know that this condition is how I got it. What should I do if I have balanitis?Doctor's answer:
Based on your description, you may have balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis). If it is caused by phimosis (reduced foreskin retraction) or paraphimosis (inability to retract the foreskin), it is recommended that you undergo surgical treatment. Avoid spicy and irritating foods, quit smoking and alcohol, pay attention to personal hygiene, and clean the external genitalia daily. Generally, the condition can recover within about a week. Balanitis can be relieved, but the treatment period is usually long, and the condition tends to recur after treatment.