Patient's question:
The foreskin has small red bumps on the glans, and there are also red spots on the skin near the base of the penis. Four days ago, there were about 10 of them, and now they have doubled.Past treatment and effectiveness: In 2000, I had balanitis and phimosis, and I went to a urology hospital to get it treated. It cost over 400 yuan, and they prescribed a compound clotrimazole cream, oral medication, and a bunch of traditional Chinese medicine. The traditional Chinese medicine required soaking the glans in warm liquid, twice a day in the morning and evening. However, it was too troublesome, so I stopped using it and just applied the cream. Yesterday, I couldn’t find Clotrimazole cream at the pharmacy.
Type of help needed: Are there other creams available at pharmacies that can treat balanitis? Because the urology hospitals here are all private, and it costs a lot of money. I feel some medications might be unnecessary prescriptions.
Doctor's answer:
Balanoposthitis is primarily caused by local poor hygiene leading to infection. It is recommended to apply a 1:5000 potassium permanganate solution to the affected area for cleaning, followed by topical treatment, oral metronidazole, and ciprofloxacin for anti-inflammatory treatment. If the foreskin is too long, surgical removal can be considered. Pay attention to hygiene of the genital area, clean frequently, and it can be avoided. It is advised that patients pay more attention to their diet in daily life and avoid irritating foods. Rest more!