What should I do if my foreskin is swollen?

Foreskin swelling can be treated by local cleaning, cold compress to reduce swelling, application of antibacterial ointment, oral anti-inflammatory drugs, and timely medical treatment. Foreskin swelling is usually caused by balanitis, traumatic friction, allergic reaction, bacterial infection, foreskin incarceration, etc.

1. Partial cleaning

Gently rinse the swollen area with warm water and avoid using harsh lotions. Swelling caused by mild balanitis can be relieved by cleaning 2-3 times a day and keeping the area dry after cleaning. When cleaning, the foreskin needs to be completely opened to remove secretions, but the action should be gentle to avoid aggravating edema.

2. Cold compress to reduce swelling

For foreskin edema caused by trauma or allergies, you can use a clean towel to wrap an ice pack for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day. Cold compress can constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammatory exudation. Be careful to avoid frostbite on the skin. Swelling caused by friction or insect bites usually subsides significantly after 24-48 hours of applying cold compresses.

3. Antibacterial ointment

In case of bacterial infection, topical mupirocin ointment, compound polymyxin B ointment or clotrimazole cream can be used. Fungal balanitis requires the use of ketoconazole cream, applied 2 times a day. Clean and dry the affected area before application. The ointment should cover all red and swollen areas. The usage period is usually 5-7 days.

4. Oral medications

Severe infections require oral administration of cefaclor dispersible tablets, azithromycin tablets or levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets. Allergic reactions can be treated with antihistamines such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine tablets. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medicine. Cephalosporins may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, so it is recommended to take them after meals.

5. Seek medical treatment promptly

Foreskin incarceration requires immediate emergency treatment, as delay may lead to necrosis. Recurrent foreskin swelling may require circumcision. The occurrence of suppuration, severe pain or fever indicates aggravation of infection, and you must seek medical advice for secretion culture or ultrasound examination, and intravenous antibiotic infusion if necessary.

You should choose breathable cotton underwear every day to avoid stuffiness, and pay attention to cleanliness before and after sex. Avoid spicy and irritating foods in your diet. Appropriate supplementation of vitamin B2 and vitamin C can help repair mucous membranes. Uncircumcised men need to develop the habit of washing the glans of the penis daily, but do not overuse lotions that damage the skin barrier. Sexual intercourse and strenuous exercise should be prohibited until the foreskin swelling subsides. During the observation period, if symptoms persist for more than 3 days or worsen, a follow-up visit is required.