When should a doctor be seen about phimosis?
Written in association with:
Paediatric urologist
Published: 04/04/2024
Edited by: Conor Lynch
In this article below, esteemed consultant paediatric urologist, Mr CK Sinha, tells us about all the important facts about phimosis, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What causes phimosis?
First of all, phimosis is defined as not being able to pull back the foreskin of the penis. In children, it is mostly due to physiological reasons. The most common cause is infection, either chronic or acute infection. Phimosis has also been associated with eczema on the skin of the child. In adults, it can be associated with sexually transmitted infections.
What are the main symptoms of phimosis?
The main symptom in children is the foreskin not being able to be pulled back. This can occur in some children up until the age of nine or 10 years of age. Phimosis prevents this area of the penis to be cleaned, so infection can easily occur as a result. Children will often experience pain, irritation, itching, and urinary tract infections. Other symptoms include blood in the urine and passing urine more frequently.
When should a doctor be seen about phimosis?
It should be seen by a paediatric surgeon as soon as possible. If the hygiene is not maintained, the condition can cause serious conditions, such as skin inflammation and recurrent urinary tract infections.
How is phimosis diagnosed?
A physical examination is all that’s needed. We see that the foreskin is tight. If we see that it is not red, we prescribe some moisturising cream. However, if it is red, urgent treatment is required.
How is the condition treated?
Moisturising cream is sometimes all that is needed in mild cases where the foreskin is not inflamed or itchy. If there is scarring and redness on the foreskin, surgical intervention is required.
What are the risks and complications of phimosis?
Skin can get easily infected, as mentioned. Recurrent urinary tract infections can also occur, causing bladder and kidney damage. Sometimes, bleeding occurs if children try to pull it back. One very important risk is the development of cancer, so the condition needs to be investigated and treated as soon as possible.
To book an appointment with Mr CK Sinha, just head over to his Top Doctors profile today.