Patient's question:
I've recently noticed that every time I take a bath, a strange odor reappears, coming from the foreskin. At the time, I didn't pay much attention, but now it's getting worse. My friend said I might have balanitis, but my foreskin isn't very long.Doctor's answer:
No, balanitis is more common in adolescents and children. It is often caused by excessive foreskin, smegma, and bacterial infection when local hygiene is not paid attention to, leading to the accumulation of dirt inside the foreskin and subsequent illness. In the early stages of the disease, mild cases may only show redness of the glans and inner foreskin, accompanied by itching. Severe cases may involve pain and tenderness; in later stages, superficial ulcers may develop inside the foreskin, with yellow or cheese-like discharge, often accompanied by a foul odor. Significant local redness and swelling can interfere with urination and cause dysuria. For severe cases of balanitis, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment as advised by the doctor.