Balanitis is an infection in males, which causes inflammation on the head of the penis(1). It is usually a result of chronic skin conditions or poor hygiene. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reveals that approximately 3-11% of males experience this in their lifetime, and it primarily occurs in uncircumcised men.
It is very painful, and itchy genitals, painful urination, etc. are the other associated symptoms. Studies reveal it can also be caused due to uncontrolled diabetes, and sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis, trichomonas, and gonorrhea.
Treatment for Balanitis
A glycerin wash or medicated glycerin creams are useful in maintaining good genital hygiene. Glycerin cleans and also moisturizes the skin.
You can use glycerin wash while showering. Royal Adelaide Hospital has provided a step by step procedure for managing balanitis, which you can access from here(2).
Use a glycerin wash every day while showering and a glycerin cream after showering.
To control the symptoms and avoid flare-ups, it is crucial to reduce sugar intake. This will also help reduce the inflammation and discomfort due to it. It primarily helps in fighting and preventing candida balanoposthitis, a condition caused due to diabetes.
Avoid sugary drinks; instead, concentrate on whole foods like vegetables, fruits, fish, etc. It is also advisable to avoid simple carbohydrates.
It is a lifestyle you will have to adapt to, to avoid developing the same condition in the future.
[Read: Is Circumcision Better? ]
Along with keeping the penis clean, you also have to ensure it is dry and adequately ventilated.
Properly ventilating the genital area not only keeps it dry and does not allow bacteria to grow but also relieves itchy skin.
You can wear loose boxers to allow the area to ventilate. Do not wear tight underpants for more than 5-6 hours every day when suffering from this condition.
Garlic is rich in a compound called allicin, which combats inflammation and also strengthens the immune system. It, in turn, helps in fighting inflammation and other symptoms related to balanitis.
Experts recommend that it is better to consult your doctor before incorporating garlic in your diet, as it tends to get in the way of blood coagulation for some individuals.
You can add garlic in the food you eat. Try to eat one dish with garlic in it every day.
ACV is rich in anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, which excellently treat balanitis infections. The National Center for Biotechnology Information(3) proclaims that it is also rich in polyphenols, which helps reduce oxidative stress.
Along with combating balanitis, apple cider vinegar (ACV) also regulates blood sugar levels.
Do not apply ACV directly. Dilute it in some water before applying it to the affected area.
Apply it twice every day to fight balanitis.
[Read: Get Rid Of Candida Naturally]
Honey, when applied to the inflamed penis in balanitis, quickly brings down the swelling and also heals the irritated and stretched foreskin. The National Center for Biotechnology Information(4) confirms that honey has a broad spectrum of therapeutic properties like anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antidiabetic, etc.
Rub honey on the aggravated area using your fingers and keep it on for 15 minutes before rinsing it off. Do this twice a day for two weeks.
Also known as the melaleuca oil, tea tree oil is a powerhouse when it comes to its combating characteristics. It is also loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. Its cicatrisant properties help heal skin problems rapidly with no side effects. Hence, it is also used in many skincare products and soaps.
You can apply it directly to the affected area. Take some of it on your fingers or a cotton ball and spread it evenly.
Apply it thrice a day to bring down the inflammation. Make sure you clean your fingers properly before application.
Studies reveal that coconut oil is rich in lauric acid and caprylic acid, which brings down inflammation and also combats infection.
Consuming coconut oil can prove to be effective. Otherwise, you can rub the oil directly on the inflamed area.
It is essential to clean the aggravated area properly before applying coconut oil on it.
Do it four times a day to see the desired results.
[Read: Natural Remedies for Inflammation]
Chamomile has been used since ancient times for its ability to alleviate pain and relieve anxiety.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information(5) believes that the alpha-bisabolol and matricin compounds in chamomile oil have anti-inflammatory properties that bring down the swelling.
You can directly rub some oil on the aggravated area with your fingers. Apply it twice a day to see effective results.
Remember to clean your fingers properly before application.
Studies prove that yogurt is rich in many nutrients like calcium, vitamin B12, magnesium, potassium, etc. and is very beneficial for regulating overall health. As it is a natural probiotic, it helps in combating infection, which might occur in this condition.
You can incorporate yogurt into your diet. You can have one cup of it every day with your meals.
Frontiers in Microbiology(5) confirm that cranberry juice is an appropriate remedy to treat several urinary tract infections and conditions. Cranberry juice controls the diseases and other symptoms like swelling and irritated skin with its antibacterial properties.
You can drink cranberry juice directly without adding anything to it. You can add a pinch of salt, but do not add sugar.
It is recommended to drink it two times a day to control balanitis.
[Read: Probiotics for Overall Health of Men]
Most men can overcome the condition of balanitis if they follow some preventive tips. Listed below are some things you can keep in mind for the same.
Balanitis is a frustrating condition. However, the remedies mentioned above can help in effectively fighting the condition. It is also advised to consult a doctor as it could be a symptom of some other chronic diseases. If you are taking other medications, you can also use the above remedies under doctor’s advice, which could augment the healing process and prevent further infections.
No. It is not a sexually transmitted disease.
If not treated for longer, then there can be chances of penile cancer.
With proper treatment and care, balanitis can heal in 5-6 days.