Why is the foreskin often inflamed?

Recurrent foreskin inflammation is usually related to factors such as poor local hygiene, excessive foreskin length, bacterial infection, decreased immunity, and allergic reactions. Foreskin inflammation can be alleviated through daily cleaning, drug treatment, surgical intervention, etc. If severe, timely medical treatment is required.

1. Poor hygiene:

Smegma easily accumulates between the inner plate of the foreskin and the glans, and will breed bacteria if not cleaned in time. When men's daily cleaning is insufficient, sweat, urine residue and sebum mix to form an alkaline environment, irritating the mucous membranes and causing inflammation. It is recommended to gently open and clean the foreskin with warm water every day and avoid using irritating lotions.

2. Foreskin is too long:

People with phimosis or excessive foreskin cannot completely evert out, making it difficult to remove secretions. Long-term moist and closed environment is conducive to the reproduction of Candida albicans, Streptococcus, etc., which manifests as redness, swelling, itching, and white bean dregs-like secretions. Mild cases can be improved by manual dilation, but circumcision should be considered in patients with recurrent infections.

3. Bacterial infection:

Pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli can invade through sexual contact or cross-infection through clothing. Purulent secretions accompanied by burning pain occur in the acute phase, and the diagnosis needs to be confirmed by culture of the secretions. Common treatment drugs include erythromycin ointment, clotrimazole cream and other topical antibacterial preparations. Oral antibiotics are required when systemic symptoms are combined.

4. Low immunity:

Patients with diabetes, HIV infection, or those taking immunosuppressants for a long time have weakened local defense functions and are prone to secondary infections. In such patients, inflammation often persists and may be accompanied by ulcers or necrosis, and underlying diseases need to be controlled simultaneously. Appropriate supplementation of vitamin C and zinc can help enhance mucosal repair ability.

5. Allergic stimulation:

Contact dermatitis can occur from condom latex, detergent residue, or topical pharmaceutical ingredients. Symptoms include sudden edema and dense papules. Allergens need to be checked and neutral toiletries need to be replaced. Hydrocortisone ointment can be used for a short period of time in severe allergies, but long-term use of steroid drugs should be avoided.

To prevent foreskin inflammation, you need to establish good hygiene habits, choose breathable cotton underwear and avoid sitting in humid environments for long periods of time. Reduce the intake of spicy foods and supplement with appropriate probiotics to maintain the balance of the flora. Pay attention to cleanliness before and after sexual intercourse. For those with excessive foreskin, it is recommended to decide whether to undergo surgery after a doctor’s evaluation. If symptoms such as persistent pain, difficulty urinating, or fever occur, it may be complicated by a urinary tract infection, and you need to see a urologist immediately.