Spermatocele is a cyst or an abnormal sac that grows in the coiled tube situated on the upper-testicle which collects and transmits sperm. This type of cyst is generally filled with clear or milky fluid which may contain sperm. The size of the painless and noncancerous cyst may vary greatly from one patient to another.

These are often referred to as spermatic cysts. They generally do not cause any serious health problems and so, do not require any treatment. But, severe cases of the condition can be treated with surgery.

Spermatocele Causes

The exact causative factors for this condition are still unknown. Possible causes of Spermatoceles include trauma, infection (epididymitis) and inflammation. However, that does not mean that they cannot develop from any other factors other than these two. According to some researches, these cysts can develop from the blockage of the epididymis and some other ducts. Utero exposure to a synthetic type of estrogen named diethylstilbestrol may also be responsible for the formation of spermatic cysts.

According to the ultrasound findings of the scrotum in one study, 35% men develop these cysts following a vasectomy.

A diverticulum originating from the tubules located in the epididymis’s head is also counted among the possible causes of the condition. The diverticulum may increase in size due to spermatogenesis over time, ultimately leading to this cyst.

Spermatocele Symptoms

In most cases, the cysts remain in the same size and do not cause any visible symptoms. However, they may sometimes grow larger and result in the following symptoms:

• Pain and discomfort in the involved testicle
• Feeling a heaviness in the affected area
• Swelling above and behind the affected testicle
• Pain in the lower back, upper thigh and groin regions
• Lower abdominal pain in some cases

In some rare instances, a spermatic cyst may advance and lead to cancer.

Spermatocele Prevention

There is no way of preventing the development of this kind of cyst as the reasons behind its growth are not known. However, performing regular scrotal self-exams can be helpful for detecting any changes in one’s scrotum. Performing the test at least once every month assists in identifying a growth of mass in the area. Early detection of the cyst is generally useful for preventing it from advancing to a harmful stage. It is advisable to consult a physician to learn the correct way of performing this test.

It is ideal to examine the testicles after taking a warm bath as the hot water helps to relax the scrotum which makes it easier to detect any abnormalities.

Spermatocele Diagnosis

Doctors generally perform a thorough physical examination to diagnose this condition. Proper diagnosis is important to understand the size and severity of the cyst as it may lead to more serious health problems and cancer if left untreated. Sometimes, painless malignant tumors are erroneously identified as Spermatoceles and are not treated properly. These tumors can eventually lead to cancer.

The spermatic cysts are generally painless. However, an individual may feel a little discomfort when the doctor examines the mass by palpation. The following diagnostic tests may be used for this purpose:

Transillumination

Sometimes the doctor uses a shining light for illuminating the scrotum to look for any abnormality. A fluid-filled mass is indicated by the light in case the patient has a spermatic cyst.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound may be ordered by a physician for confirming the diagnosis if the transillumination test shows a fluid-filled mass in the scrotum of a patient. In cases where the transillumination fails to clearly indicate the presence of a cyst, an ultrasound helps to determine the exact nature of the mass. This diagnostic test creates images of the affected area by using high-frequency sound waves. It is also helpful for eliminating the possibility of other conditions, like a testicular tumor, that may cause scrotal swelling.

Spermatocele Differential Diagnosis

The following conditions may be confused with this type of cyst as they have similar symptoms:

• Hydrocele
• Varicocele
• Testicular Cancer
• Inguinal Hernia
• Simple Epididymal Cyst
• Neoplasm
• Epididymitis
• Hematocele
• Orchitis
• Tuberculosis of epididymis
• Twisting of the testis

Spermatocele Treatment and Management

Treatment is not necessary in many cases of the condition as these cysts do not usually cause any pain and discomfort. However, proper treatment is required if they grow large in size and cause symptoms like pain and swelling. The available treatment options for curing the cysts are discussed below:

Medication

Non-surgical treatment options include various over-the-counter pain-relief medicines, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), that are used for the purpose of managing the pain resulting from the cysts.

Aspiration

Aspiration is a relatively rare procedure used for treating various types of cysts. Here, a small needle is used for puncturing the spermatic cyst and retrieve the fluid inside the sac into a syringe. However, it is not generally recommended due to the chances of epididymal damage which can affect the fertility of the patient.

Sclerotherapy

It is a less commonly used treatment option used for getting rid of this condition. The surgeon begins this procedure by draining the fluid which fills the sac before injecting a certain chemical into the cyst. This chemical contains irritating agents that lead to scarring of the spermatic cyst sac and occupies the empty space resulting from the drainage of the fluid for lowering the recurrence risk of the cyst.

Surgery

Severe cases of the disorder can be treated by operation for removing the cyst. The removal procedure is quite simple and can be performed on an outpatient basis. The surgeon uses general or local anesthesia for carrying out the surgery. An incision is made in the patient’s scrotum to separate the cyst from the epididymis.

Spermatocele Follow-up Care

The patient is generally asked to use gauze-filled athletic supporters after the surgery for applying adequate pressure as well as to protect the incision site. Following are the main follow-up treatments required after undergoing a surgery for removing the cyst:

• Applying ice packs regularly for 2 to 3 days as it helps to reduce the swelling
• Taking the prescribed oral pain medicine for 1 to 2 days to keep the pain in check
• Returning to the doctor around 2 weeks after the surgery for having a follow-up examination

Spermatocele Complications

It does not generally cause any complications. However, in severe cases it is necessary to remove the cyst by surgery which can lead to certain complications. Surgical removal may cause damage to the vas deferens (the tube responsible for transporting sperm from epididymis) or the epididymis which may eventually reduce fertility of the patient.

Sclerotherapy, another treatment option for the condition, may damage the epididymis, reducing the fertility of an individual. This procedure is mainly used for treating men who are already beyond the reproductive years.

None of these two treatment processes can completely prevent the recurrence chances of the spermatic cysts.

Spermatocele Prognosis

Spermatic cysts usually do not cause any short-term or long-term problems. In more serious cases, the prognosis is generally positive with early diagnosis and proper treatment. The condition does not affect the fertility of the patient. Timely treatment allows the patient to live a long and normal life.

Spermatocele Recovery Time

The cyst usually takes 4 to 5 days to heal completely after surgery. The other treatment options take up to one week to cure the condition.

Spermatocele Pictures

Take a look at these images and know how these spermatic cysts appear to view.

Picture 1 – Spermatocele

Picture 2 – Spermatocele Image

Spermatocele is a form of benign cyst that does not cause any health problems in majority of the instances. There are a number of treatment options available to treat these cysts if they cause any serious symptoms and complications. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment allows the patients to live a normal life.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/spermatocele/DS00619/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs

http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=117

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/443432-workup#showall

http://www.healthscout.com/ency/1/407/main.html

http://www.mynetpharma.com/spermatocele-a-gist-of-knowledge

The post Spermatocele appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

It is an emergency medical condition that leads to a twirled spermatic cord that consequently disrupts the supply of blood to the testicle and adjoining structures inside the scrotum.

Testicular Torsion Symptoms

Picture 1 – Testicular Torsion
Source – nhatky

Some of the main symptoms of Testicular Torsion are :

Scrotal Inflammation

Swelling inside one side of the scrotum is one of the main signs of Testicular Torsion. Inflammation is localized and arises on one side of the scrotum while there is marked absence of symptoms in the other side.

Testicular Pain

The disorder also leads to acute pain that arises suddenly in one testicle, even in the absence of any predisposed condition.

Nausea

Patients of this condition also suffer from nausea and vomiting that can impair their daily activities and force them to take bed rest. There is also a light-headed sensation in many suffering individuals.

In some patients, there may be other discomforting symptoms like blood in the semen and the development of a lump in the testicle.

There can be severe inflammation and pain in an impacted testicle. This condition may arise in men belonging to any age group. The disorder is, however, most likely to be seen in adolescents and infants. This is because a high degree of developmental variation occurs inside the reproductive system at this age. An individual experiencing testicular torsion should be assessed and cured as an emergency measure.

Testicular Torsion Causes

Some of the main causes of Testicular Torsion are :

Trauma

Injury to the scrotum can lead to excessive inflammation and result in the development of this disorder.

Insufficient connective tissue

Testicular torsion may also occur due to inadequate scrotal connective tissues. Lack of enough connective tissue inside the scrotum can also increase the risk of having this condition.

Heavy exercise

Strenuous workouts can also increase this condition and lead to damages within the scrotum.

Genetic Defects

Doctors have also attributed this disorder to inheritable genes that impair testicular stability and make some people more susceptible to this condition than others.

Testicular Torsion Diagnosis

The aim of diagnosis is to detect enlargement and extreme tenderness in the testicular region, especially in the right area. Diagnosis also aims at detecting whether the testicle is located higher on the affected side.

An urologist can generally diagnose this condition by asking questions about the symptoms and by physical examination of the scrotum. Urine and blood samples may also be collected and diagnostic imaging tests may be conducted to eliminate other causes of pain in the testicles, such as a tumor or an infection.

Testicular Torsion Treatment

Treatment of Testicular Torsion usually involves a surgical operation. An urologist may arrange for surgery immediately after diagnosis of this condition. Following the appearance of symptoms, surgery should be carried out as early as possible. If done within six hours, surgery can help save most testicles.

During surgical correction, an experienced surgeon cuts into the scrotal area to detect the twisted region and manually disentangles the spermatic tube. The testicle is then anchored or stitched to the wall of the scrotum to lower the risk of recurrence of this syndrome.

While carrying out an operation, the surgeons generally anchor the unaffected testicle as a preventive step. In the absence of this measure, the unaffected testicle may develop Testicular Torsion sometime in future.

Testicular Torsion Recovery

If quickly diagnosed and treated, the testicular function may continue to be normal. Following a timely Testicular Torsion surgery recovery may be complete. If there is an obstruction in blood flow for over 6 hours, there is increased chance of surgically removing the affected testicle. In some cases, however, the loss of testicular functioning may be permanent even if blood supply has been cut of for less than 6 hours.

However, prognosis is generally good if surgical cure is administered within 6 hours after the onset of symptoms. Generally, patients are able to return to a normal life within three months of proper cure. They are able to perform physical activities and even have sex.

Testicular Torsion Complications

If the blood supply is obstructed to the testicle for an extended duration, there may be atrophy (shrinkage) of the testicle and there can be permanent damage to the tissues in the spermatic tube. This can result in infertility and necessitate surgical removal of the affected testicle. Testicular Atrophy may develop in a few days to a few months after the Testicular Torsion repair. If the flow of blood is restricted for a long time, there can be acute infection of the scrotum and the testicle. Unless cured in time, permanent loss of testicular activity may also occur.

Intermittent Testicular Torsion

It is an acute condition that leads to recurrent pain in the scrotum. The pain usually arises rapidly and goes away after some time. Other discomforting symptoms associated with this disease include nausea and vomiting. The scrotal pain is acute in this disorder and is usually treated by surgery. Surgical operation has been found to provide relief in majority of patients of this condition.

Torsion of a Testicular Appendage

This is a common cause of pain in the testicles of young boys, particularly those aged between 7 and 14. This condition can lead to acute scrotum. Appendix Testis and Appendix Epididymis are two such appendages. The former can be found in 92% of all testicles and the later, in 23% of testes. Acute inflammation and pain in the scrotum is frequently attributed to this condition. Torsion of a testicular appendage is a benign condition. However, it may present itself similar to Testicular Torsion, an emergency urologic condition.

Testicular Torsion Pictures

Check out these testicular torsion images to find out how a convoluted testicle looks like. You may find these Testicular Torsion photos useful for reference.

Picture 2 – Testicular Torsion Image
Source – michiganurology

Picture 3 – Testicular Torsion Photo
Source – fbcdn

If you or anyone in your family is experiencing discomforting symptoms of this condition such as sudden testicular pain, one-sided scrotal inflammation and persistent vomiting, it is advisable that you seek immediate medical care. Testicular torsion is an acute condition and it is not sensible to ignore it. Early treatment and cure can help in making a complete recovery and maintain testicular function.

References:

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/778170-overview

http://www.bettermedicine.com/article/testicular-torsion-1

http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/testiculartorsion.htm

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16148646

The post Testicular Torsion appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

Epididymitis Definition

Epididymitis medical definition is given as an inflammation or infection of the Epididymis, a coiled tubular structure at the back of the testicles that stores and carries the male sperm. This tube-like thing connects the testis with the vas deferens. Sperms mature in the Epididymis and are transferred to the Vas Deferens, the epithelial duct. It is the Vas Deferens that takes the sperms out of the Epididymis during ejaculation.

An inflammation in the Epididymis is called Epididymitis. In some people, the swelling spreads to the testicles. The condition is then known as Epididymo-orchitis.

Epididymitis is pronounced as “Ap-ee-did-i-mee-tis”.

Symptoms of Epididymitis

Epididymitis is mainly characterized by inflammation. However, it gives to other symptoms as well such as

Pain

In sufferers of Epididymitis groin pain is a major complaint. In Epididymitis abdominal pain and pelvic discomforts are also quite common.

Painful Ejaculation

Victims of this disease also suffer from pain during ejaculation. This impacts the overall health of sufferers and affects their sex life as well.

Bloody Ejaculation

Epididymitis patients often find blood being ejaculated in their semen. Blood in semen is one of the most common signs of Epididymitis.

Burning Sensation

In sufferers of Epididymitis burning or painful sensation while urinating is also common.

Urethral Discharge

Epididymitis patients also suffer from discharge through the urethra or the aperture at the end of their penis.

Fever

Higher body temperature often accompanies groin pain and inflammation. The entire inflamed area becomes tender to touch. Fever comes with fatigue that may affect the daily lives of patients.

Bloody Urine

In some sufferers of Epididymitis blood in urine is also a major complaint. Bloody urine along with penile discharge is extremely discomforting and disturbing for the patient.

Causes of Epididymitis

Epididymitis arises due to a variety of reasons. Some of the major Epididymitis causes are

Bacterial Infection

In sufferers of Epididymitis bacterial infection of the urinary tract has been found to be the main cause. This kind of infection usually arises after an improper surgery of the urinary tract or a swelling of the Prostate gland (Prostatitis) that spreads to the testis. Bacteria of genus Ureaplasma and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are the main causes of this disorder. Serious cases of Epididymitis infection are often the result of E. Coli bacteria.

Retrograde Urine Flow

If the bladder is full of urine and violent pressure forces it along the Vas Deferens, Epididymitis can arise. This is a common problem in bodybuilders who rush into the gym and start exercising on a full bladder to save time.

Pumping iron with a full bladder can push urine into the testis through the Vas Deferens. The more the amount, the worse is the Epididymitis. The problem especially happens in cases where the urine contains bacteria. It gives rise to bacterial infection.

STD

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) like Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea can also give rise to Epididymitis.

Amiodarone

In some cases, Epididymitis arises as a side-effect of the drug Amiodarone that is used to reduce heart rate abnormalities.

Epididymitis Risk Factors

As can be guessed, you can only find Epididymitis in men. It is primarily seen to affect men in the age group 20-40. It is seen more in sexually active males. Men having unprotected sex with multiple sexual partners are at increased risk of contracting diseases like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea which raises susceptibility of suffering from this condition.

Other people who can suffer from this disease include individuals who are uncircumcised, have structural defects in their urinary tract or regularly use urethral catheter. People who have recently had a urinary tract surgery can also suffer from this disorder.

Epididymitis Diagnosis

Initial Epididymitis examination usually begins with physical tests that show a swollen red, tender lump on the affected edge of the scrotum. An experienced physician checks whether inflammation is a result of localized swelling of lymph nodes in the groin region.

In sufferers of Epididymitis tests like Testicular Scan, Complete Blood Count, and Urinalysis are carried out to differentiate the disease from other similar conditions. A Rectal examination may be performed to see whether a tender or enlarged prostate is the cause of swelling. A Doppler Ultrasound Test may also be carried out to see whether there is an increased flow of blood to the affected Epididymis.

Epididymitis Treatment

Epididymitis cure actually depends on the causative factor of the condition as well as the symptoms.

Antibiotics

If sexually-transmitted infections are found to cause Epididymitis antibiotics are necessary for cure. In Epididymitis treatment antibiotics should be administered to the patient as well as his sexual partners.

Lowering Medicinal Dose

Epididymitis cases found to be resulting as a side effect of Amidarone should be treated simply by lowering the dosage of the medicine.

Analgesics

Acute pain in the groin should be treated by analgesic drugs. Over-the-counter analgesics provide Epididymitis pain relief in a short time but should be taken as per doctors’ recommendation.

Epididymitis Drugs

Epididymitis medicines usually prescribed by doctors include Azithromycin, Cefazolin, Ceftriaxone, Cefixime, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Levofloxacin, Ofloxacin and Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim.

If sexually transmitted diseases like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are found to cause Epididymitis medication treatment should be done with drugs like Azithromycin and Cefixime. Epididymitis E. Coli cases are treated with Levofloxacin and Ofloxacin. In sufferers of Epididymitis Doxycycline is used as alternative for Azithromycin.

Natural Treatment for Epididymitis

Epididymitis natural cure is possible through various methods. The following ways are quite popular for natural Epididymitis home treatment.

Rest

Physical activity increases inflammation which can be reduced by rest. As a natural cure for Epididymitis bed rest is very effective.

Ice

Application of ice to mildly swollen Epididymis can help reduce inflammation. Doing this at least for two times every day can be quite effective.

Elevation

As aforesaid, Epididymitis can occur due to increased blood flow to the testicles. Keeping the groin raised over other body regions can reduce the extent of swelling by natural means.

Epididymitis Diet

Epididymitis sufferers should make some dietary modifications along with medicinal treatment to get rid of this discomforting disease. If you are having Epididymitis, it is advisable that you stay away from beverages like tea, coffee alcohol and carbonated drinks which irritate the urinary system. Foods that act as natural laxatives such as fresh fruits, nuts, whole-grain cereals and dried plum (prunes) are also recommended.

When Is Epididymitis Chronic?

When Epididymitis lasts for over six weeks, it is termed as Chronic Epididymitis. Chronic Epididymitis is believed to be a result of hypersensitivity of nerves and muscles. It occurs even in the absence of infection of any kind.

Chronic Epididymitis gives rise to symptoms like persistent scrotal pain and scrotal inflammation. For diagnosis of Chronic Epididymitis Ultrasound and other tests may be performed to rule out other conditions like Epididymis Cyst, Testicular Veins and Swollen Scrotal Veins.

Chronic Epididymitis treatment is usually treated by injecting a combination of anti-inflammatory medicines, analgesics and steroids into the scrotal nerve. This medication can cure pain for nearly 3 months though the duration of respite may vary from person to person. If the scrotal pain refuses to disappear despite this treatment, a process known as ‘Cord block’ may be used for cure. In acute cases, doctors may go for a complete Epididymis removal. This is done through a careful Epididymitis surgery by expert surgeons.

Is Epididymitis Contagious?

The University of Illinois Medical Center holds that Epididymitis is not a contagious disease. However, it may accompany any contagious condition that is sexually transmitted.

Epididymitis Complications

If treated well, Epididymitis does not usually give rise to any complications. With proper treatment of Epididymitis infertility does not occur as feared by many. However, in case of Epididymitis left untreated, problems like Chronic Epididymitis can arise. This is an Epididymitis long term complication. It can also cause permanent destruction or damage of the testicles or epididymis resulting in Hypogonadism or infertility.

In some cases, infection may spread to other systems or organs of the body.

Epididymitis Prognosis

Epididymitis recovery time is generally 1-3 days. With proper treatment pain subsides in a couple of days. However, an Epididymitis swelling may take several weeks or months to heal. Chronic Epididymitis lasts for three months or more while Acute Epididymitis persists for around six weeks.

Does Epididymitis Go Away Permanently?

With proper treatment, Epididymitis goes away in most cases. However, the condition may turn chronic in some cases even with treatment. Epididymitis recurrence can also happen in a few cases.

Epididymitis Pictures

Epididymitis is quite a complex condition that may be mistaken with other disorders that give rise to scrotal swelling. Here are some useful Epididymitis photos to help you out. Check out these Epididymitis images to make sure whether you are actually having this condition.

Picture 1 – Chronic Epididymitis
Source – findmeacure.com

Picture 2 – Epididymitis Image
Source – medicalook.com

If you are having a swollen and painful scrotum, you may be suffering from Epididymitis. A swollen Epididymis can be very discomforting and lead to much embarrassment. The faster you begin treatment for this condition, the better it will be for you.

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epididymitis

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/testicle_infection_epididymitis/article_em.htm

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/777181-overview

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001279.htm

https://health.google.com/health/ref/Epididymitis

http://www.rxmed.com/b.main/b1.illness/b1.1.illnesses/EPIDIDYMITIS.htm

http://www.drugs.com/cg/epididymitis-inpatient-care.html

The post Epididymitis – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

Phimosis Definition

Picture 1 – Phimosis Picture
Source – causticsodapodcast

Phimosis is a medical condition that is characterized by limited exposure of the glans clitoridis, the red mass of tissue that stands at the tip of the penis. This happens when the foreskin of the penis tightly sits over the aperture of the penis and cannot be retracted. In uncircumcised male infants, the foreskin is normally tight in the initial years and become retractable as the boy begins to grow. But in case of Phimosis in infants, the foreskin is not easily retractable and neither does it loosen with time. This causes problems during urination and if not corrected in time, can hinder sexual activity.

Phimosis Meaning

The  term Phimosis comes from the Greek word “phimos” meaning “muzzle” which is an obvious reference to the muzzled or blocked condition of the penis.

Types of Phimosis

Phimosis may either be congenital or acquired.

Congenital Phimosis

In Congenital Phimosis cases, the condition results from defects arising while the child is still in fetus. The disorder is also known as Primary Phimosis.

Acquired Phimosis

In case of Acquired Phimosis, the patient develops a phimosis ring after his birth. The foreskin becomes difficult to stretch. The disease is also called Secondary Phimosis.

Phimosis Symptoms

Some of the main problems associated with Phimosis are :

Pain

The affected child experiences pain at the tip of the penis, especially during urination or ejaculation during sexual activity.

Penile Inflammation

The sufferer also experiences swelling at the head of his penis. The inflammation may aggravate while passing urine. The constricted penile aperture makes urination difficult and the urine builds up inside the penis leading to swelling.

Penile Discharge

In some cases, a discharge may be released from the penis. This may be foul-smelling.

Penile Bleeding

In serious cases, the person may also suffer from bleeding in the penile region.

Cancer

In very rare cases, Phimosis may lead to Penile Cancer.

Phimosis Causes

A lot of factors may give rise to Phimosis. These are :

Congenital Defect

In many sufferers of Phimosis congenital anomaly is held to be the prime causative factor.

Yeast Infection

If Yeast Infection in males is not treated in time, it can also lead to complications like Phimosis. The infection causes swelling in the foreskin and Glans Penis. The Glans Penis and foreskin begin to cling together causing phimosis problems.

In a few cases of Phimosis diabetes is found to result in yeast infection.

Poor Hygiene

Not following proper hygiene can make the genital prone to infections and give rise to swelling in foreskin and other problems leading to Phimosis.

Is Phimosis Genetic?

In some cases, genetic factors can play a role. But Phimosis in kids may or may not arise due to heredity. One may inherit the condition in a few cases. Genetics is not always responsible for the appearance of this disease. Even absolutely normal people can give birth to a male child with Phimosis.

Phimosis Diagnosis

In case of Phimosis doctors normally carry out a diagnosis by physical examination. If there is an infection, a skin biopsy may be carried out.

Phimosis Treatment

Even if the condition does not cause any discomfort or pain, immediate treatment of phimosis is necessary. This is especially important in cases where there is tightening of the foreskin in early years. Treatment includes both non-surgical as well as surgical means.

Phimosis Non-Surgical Treatment

Phimosis treatment without surgery involves topical application of creams. In patients with Phimosis steroid creams are applied over the foreskin and the skin is gently pulled. This helps loosen the foreskin and expose the penis aperture. The treatment can be used for both children and adults. In many sufferers of Phimosis creams like Hydrocortisone have been found quite effective in loosening the skin.

If manual efforts prove unsuccessful, doctors may try balloon inflation of the skin. This can help stretch the foreskin better than topical cream application.

In children over 3 years having Phimosis Betamethastone cream can be a safe mode of treatment. If there is no improvement even after application for a month, surgical methods are needed for Phimosis cure.

Phimosis Surgery

Picture 2 – Phimosis Surgical Treatment
Source – uroinfo

Phimosis does not go away naturally in adults. For treatment of Phimosis operation is often necessary.

In grown up males, treatment is normally done in the form of circumcision. Circumcision is a process that involves removing the upper part of the foreskin by surgical means. The remaining retractable part is left undisturbed. In very painful or inflamed cases of Phimosis, circumcision works as an immediate relief.

In patients with Clitoral Phimosis Hoodectomy Surgery is carried out to remove a small amount of tissue from the penis. This exposes the clitoris thus making urination easier. But it can take away from sexual pleasure as clitoral orgasm becomes impossible after this operation.

Phimosis Natural Treatment

If Phimosis symptoms are seen to arise because of infections, practising good hygiene can be quite effective. Cleaning and washing the genital area with a mild soap and drying the region properly afterwards can cure as well as prevent infection. It is one of the best Phimosis home treatments.

A healthy diet and proper lifestyle can help cure yeast infection, which sometimes leads to Phimosis problems.

Avoiding sexual relations with infected people can also help in faster recovery from the disorder. Yeast infection is contagious and can spread from person to person due to sexual contact.

Avoiding glycerine, harsh soaps and lubricants containing additives may also keep the disease away and work as a Phimosis remedy.

Phimosis Pictures

Picture 3 – Phimosis Stretching
Source – blogspot

Image 4 – Phimosis Surgery
Source – nevdgp

Want to know what does Phimosis look like? Check out these Phimosis images. These Phimosis photos will give you a fair idea about the appearance of the disease.

Phimosis and Paraphimosis

Very complicated cases of Phimosis can result in Paraphimosis. This is characterized by a swollen and painful Glans Penis. It becomes impossible to pull the foreskin. The rear part of the penis becomes flaccid. It is a serious situation that needs immediate medical treatment.

Phimosis Complications

Chronic problems of acquired Phimosis can lead to discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse and even urination. The urine fails to find a proper release with the blockage of the penis aperture. Urine falls in drops and the penis swells. Urination becomes extremely painful. In very serious cases, urination may stop altogether. This can be life-threatening for the sufferer and an immediate medical treatment is necessary. With early treatment of Phimosis recovery is also faster.

If you have cases of Phimosis in children or adults in your family, or are suffering from it yourself, it is advisable that you begin treatment at the earliest. Early treatment will help you enjoy lead a better life, free from all discomforts, and avoid all possible health complications in future.

The post Phimosis – Pictures, Definition, Causes, Treatment and Surgery appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What is Balanitis?

Balanitis is a health syndrome that involves an inflammation of the tip of the penis or Glans Penis. The term is derived from the Greek word “balanos” meaning “acorn”. It is a quite common disease affecting about 3-11% men in the US alone. The disorder can be seen in males of any age group.

If the disease affects the foreskin of the penis, the condition is named as Balanoposthitis.

Balanitis Symptoms in Men

Some of the most common symptoms of balanitis are:

Redness

A patient of Balanitis exhibits redness in the penis. In people affected with Balanitis foreskin also becomes red in color. In Balanitis redness is one of the initial symptoms.

Rashes

The disease gives rise to abnormal rashes on the upper part of the penis.

Foul Discharge

There is also a discharge from the penis that emits a foul odor.

Pain in Penis

Sufferers also experience pain in the penis and the foreskin. In people with Balanitis pain is very common.

What Causes Balanitis?

Several factors can act as Balanitis causes. These can be:

Poor Hygiene

Bad hygiene is a main cause of Balanitis in uncircumcised men. Improper washing of the Glans Penis or washing the groin region with a harsh soap can be a prime reason behind this condition.

Infection

In patients of Balanitis bacterial, viral or fungal infection of the skin of the penis can also be a prime cause.

Irritation

Certain chemicals used for washing clothes can stay on after drying and cause irritation in the skin in the wearer.

Trauma

Trauma or injury to the skin can also result in an inflammation or swelling of the head of the penis.

Diabetes

People with Diabetes Mellitus are particularly susceptible to this condition. Diabetes is believed to make people more prone to Balanitis.

Yeast Infection

In case of inflammatory Balanitis yeast infection is often found to be a cause.

Sexual Contact

In rare cases, sexual contact can be a causative factor. Physical intercourse can transmit the infection from an infected person to a non-infected one. It can also injure or inflame the affected region.

The disease is at first visible in the form of small, red eruptions on the Glans Penis. Then the skin takes on a red appearance. The penis turns red in color. Rashes begin to appear on the head of the penis followed by a foul-smelling discharge. In the final stages, the penis and its foreskin become painful.

Balanitis Diagnosis

The diagnosis involves identifying the cause of the condition. Finding out the cause helps in an accurate treatment of the disease. The medical history of the patient and his lifestyle should also be taken into account for a proper diagnosis.

An experienced urologist or dermatologist carries out the diagnosis by physical observation. Skin tests may be needed if the physician suspects an infection as the cause.

In some cases, a skin biopsy may be required.

Balanitis Treatment

Treatment of Balanitis depends on the cause of the disease. If an infection causes Balanitis antibiotics in the form of pills and topical creams are needed. In Balanitis treatment antibiotics are very effective. In patients with skin diseases steroidal creams prove to be very effective Balanitis cure.

In case of pain and swelling in the region, doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for immediate relief.

If a yeast infection leads to Balanitis antifungal creams can be used. For Balanitis treatment creams prove to be very useful. In case of inflammatory balanitis treatment over the counter medicines like Clotrimazole are quite effective. For people with Balanitis Clotrimazole is often recommended.

Balanitis Treatment (Circumcision)
Source – bmihealthcare

In very severe cases of Balanitis uncircumcised men can go for circumcision. In Balanitis recurring situations, circumcision is the best possible Balanitis natural treatment.

Balanitis Remedies (Home)

Balanitis home treatment can include the following:

Proper Hygiene

Following proper hygiene can help you avoid this disease. Regularly washing the penis and cleaning it thoroughly can help in recovering faster from Balanitis.

Avoiding Sex

Keeping away from sexual contact is not usually necessary. However, it is better to stop having any sexual activity until you are completely cured from the disease. As aforesaid, sexual contact can transmit the infection and also inflame the penis.

Avoiding Inflammatory Soaps

If you or your physician suspects any soap or skin lotion that you use to be the cause of Glans Penis inflammation, it is better to stop using those.

You can try these Balanitis home remedies for a faster recovery.

Balanitis Prognosis

Proper hygiene, medicines and creams are usually very effective in curing the condition. Chances of recovery are usually quite high without surgical method. Surgery is needed only in very severe cases of Balanitis.

Does Balanitis Go Away?

With effective treatment, Balanitis patients usually begin to recover within 3-5 days.

Balanitis Prevention

Balanitis can be prevented by following good hygiene and regular washing of the penis and the groin region. Men and children should always pull the foreskin and properly clean the underlying area. Harsh soaps and lotions should be avoided. The area should also be dried to avoid any fungal infection.

Balanitis Complications

If the disease is not properly treated in time, it may result in chronic infection or inflammation of the area. This can lead to painful penis conditions like phimosis, paraphimosis and inhibited blood flow to the penis. The penis aperture can also get scarred and narrowed.

Balanitis Pictures

Want to make sure about the appearance of Balanitis? Check out these Balanitis images to know how this condition looks like.

Balanitis Photo
Source – wastington

Penis Anatomy
Source – most-effective-solution

Balanitis Redness
Source – blogspot

If you find symptoms of Balanitis in children or adults in your family or are suffering from them yourself, it is about time you seek medical treatment. Early medical cure will help you make a faster recovery and avoid all painful and complicated processes such as surgery. Balanitis is a highly discomforting and embarrassing condition that can even impair your daily activities. So, the sooner you begin the treatment, the better will it be for your health.

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