What causes the foreskin to often become inflamed?

Frequent inflammation of the foreskin may be related to factors such as poor local hygiene, excessive foreskin, bacterial infection, fungal infection, and allergic reactions. The main symptoms of foreskinitis are redness and swelling of the foreskin, itching, pain, and increased secretions. It is recommended to seek medical treatment in time to determine the cause.

1. Poor local hygiene

Insufficient daily cleaning can lead to the accumulation of smegma, which can irritate the foreskin mucosa and cause inflammation. Especially after puberty, male sebaceous glands secrete vigorously. If the perineum is not cleaned in time, bacteria can easily breed. It is recommended to wash the inside and outside of the foreskin with warm water every day, avoid using irritating lotions, and keep it dry after washing.

2. Foreskin is too long

Excessive foreskin or phimosis will create a moist environment between the inner plate of the foreskin and the glans, which is conducive to the reproduction of microorganisms. This condition may be accompanied by difficulty urinating and recurring urinary tract infections. For those with recurrent inflammation, circumcision may be considered. Routine blood tests, coagulation function and other tests need to be carried out before the operation. After the operation, erythromycin ointment needs to be used according to the doctor's instructions to prevent infection.

3. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli are common causes, mostly caused by unclean sexual contact or poor hygiene habits. Patients may develop yellow purulent discharge with a foul odor. The diagnosis requires secretion culture, and antibiotics such as levofloxacin tablets and cefixime dispersible tablets can be used for treatment, together with potassium permanganate solution for sitz bath.

4. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection is more common in patients with diabetes or those who have used antibiotics for a long time. It manifests as white bean dregs-like discharge and severe itching. Keep the affected area dry and breathable, and avoid scratching. Topical clotrimazole cream or oral fluconazole capsules can be used, and the spouse needs to be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.

5. Allergic reaction

Contact with allergenic substances such as condoms and detergents may cause allergic foreshitis, which manifests as sudden redness, swelling and papules. Suspicious items need to be stopped immediately and rinsed with saline. In severe cases, desonide cream can be used for a short period of time. For daily use, it is recommended to choose hypoallergenic bath products and wear pure cotton underwear to reduce friction.

To prevent recurrence of foreskinitis, attention should be paid to daily cleaning of the perineum to avoid excessive cleaning that damages the skin barrier. Choose loose-fitting, breathable cotton underwear, wash them frequently and dry them in the sun. The diet should be light and reduce the intake of spicy and irritating foods. If systemic symptoms such as pain on urination or fever occur, or if the symptoms recur more than three times per year, you should promptly go to the urology department to check for underlying diseases such as diabetes. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment, and it is recommended that spouses undergo gynecological examinations at the same time.