Patient's question:
What are the early symptoms of balanitis?Doctor's answer:
Recurrent balanitis can be caused by infection with pathogens during sexual activity or by excessive foreskin leading to poor hygiene. Infections with Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, E. coli, Candida albicans, Trichomonas, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, fungi, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or other bacteria during sexual activity can all lead to it. Alternatively, excessive foreskin that is not cleaned properly can result in the accumulation of unclean substances between the foreskin and the glans, known as smegma, which can irritate the foreskin and mucosa, causing recurrent inflammation. Different causes require different treatments, so it is recommended that you and your sexual partner undergo a thorough examination. Once the specific cause is identified, early treatment should be initiated. Additionally, it is advised to minimize sexual activity or avoid it entirely during treatment to prevent affecting the therapeutic outcomes for both parties.