Why is my foreskin always inflamed?

The constant inflammation of the foreskin may be related to factors such as poor local hygiene, excessive foreskin, bacterial infection, fungal infection, allergic reaction and other factors. Foreskin inflammation usually presents with symptoms such as redness, pain, itching, and increased secretions, which can be improved by keeping it clean, medication, and surgery.

1. Poor local hygiene

Insufficient daily cleansing can easily lead to the accumulation of smegma, which can irritate the skin and cause inflammation. It is recommended to wash the foreskin and glans with warm water every day and avoid using irritating lotions. Keep dry after washing and choose cotton underwear with good breathability. If there is slight redness and swelling, you can temporarily take a sitz bath with light salt water to relieve it.

2. Foreskin is too long

Excessive foreskin or phimosis will make it easier for dirt to remain and increase the probability of repeated infections. This situation may be accompanied by problems such as difficulty urinating and foreskin incarceration. For people with recurring inflammation, your doctor may recommend circumcision. After surgery, you need to use erythromycin ointment as directed by your doctor to prevent infection, and review the wound healing regularly.

3. Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus can cause acute purulent inflammation, often accompanied by yellow purulent discharge. After diagnosis, antibiotics such as cefixime granules and levofloxacin tablets need to be used as directed by the doctor. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment to avoid cross-infection. If an abscess forms, it may require incision and drainage.

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 tofu-like discharge and severe itching. It can be treated with topical clotrimazole cream or oral fluconazole capsules. At the same time, blood sugar needs to be controlled and unnecessary antibiotics stopped. Partners need to be treated simultaneously to prevent repeated infection.

5. Allergic reaction

When allergic to condoms, detergents and other items, red spots, papules and burning sensation will appear on the foreskin. Suspected allergens must be stopped immediately and the affected area flushed with clean water. In severe cases, hydrocortisone cream can be applied for a short period of time. It is recommended to choose hypoallergenic cleaning and care products every day and avoid using fragrance-containing sanitary products.

People with recurrent foreskin inflammation should avoid spicy foods and reduce their intake of tobacco and alcohol. Wear loose, breathable pants to avoid prolonged sitting and severe friction. Pay attention to cleanliness before and after sex, and use condoms when necessary to reduce the risk of infection. If symptoms persist for more than a week or symptoms such as fever or ulcers occur, you must promptly go to the urology department to check for specific infections or other diseases.