How to deal with foreskin edema

Foreskin edema can be treated by local cold compress, keeping clean, avoiding friction, drug treatment, surgical treatment, etc. Foreskin edema may be related to trauma, infection, allergy, foreskin incarceration, obstruction of lymphatic flow and other factors, and usually manifests as local swelling, pain, redness and other symptoms.

1. Local cold compress

In the early stages of foreskin edema, cold compresses can be used to relieve swelling and pain. Wrap ice cubes in a clean towel and apply to the edema area for 10-15 minutes each time, repeating at intervals of 1-2 hours. Cold compresses can constrict blood vessels and reduce edema, but frostbite to the skin must be avoided. If edema lasts for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by fever, cold compresses should be stopped and medical attention should be sought promptly.

2. Keep it clean

Gently clean the foreskin and glans area with warm water every day and avoid using irritating lotions. After cleaning, keep the area dry and wear loose cotton underwear to reduce friction. If there is accumulation of smegma, it needs to be cleaned under the guidance of a doctor. Do not forcibly turn up the foreskin to aggravate the damage.

3. Avoid friction

During edema, sexual intercourse, strenuous exercise, and long-term cycling should be avoided. Reducing local friction can prevent aggravation of edema. It is recommended to elevate the penis during bed rest to promote lymphatic drainage. If the edema is caused by an allergic reaction, it is necessary to investigate and stay away from allergens such as condoms, detergents, etc.

4. Drug treatment

For edema caused by bacterial infection, topical antibiotics such as erythromycin ointment and mupirocin ointment can be used as directed by the doctor. For allergic reactions, hydrocortisone cream can be used for a short period of time to relieve inflammation. In severe cases, oral loratadine tablets can be taken. Foreskin incarceration requires emergency treatment. The doctor may locally inject chymotrypsin or manually reduce it.

5. Surgical treatment

For patients with recurrent foreskin edema or phimosis, circumcision may be considered. Surgery can completely solve the problem of excessive foreskin and prevent the recurrence of infection and edema. After surgery, the dressing should be changed regularly according to the doctor's instructions, Cefaclor dispersible tablets should be used to prevent infection, and erections and strenuous activities should be avoided for 2-4 weeks.

During foreskin edema, you should avoid scratching or squeezing the swollen area, eat a light and less spicy diet, and drink more water to promote metabolism. Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid stress from sitting for long periods of time. If edema lasts for more than 3 days, worsens rapidly, or symptoms such as difficulty urinating and fever occur, you must seek medical attention immediately to rule out serious complications such as necrotizing fasciitis. Pay attention to genital hygiene on a daily basis. For elderly people with circumcision, it is recommended to consult a doctor whether elective surgery is needed.