How to Diagnose Balanitis

Balanitis can be difficult to diagnose as it can present like other conditions. Although people with this condition often will not seek medical help, it's important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and begin the correct treatment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Look at your penis for diagnosis. Your physician may take a sample of the skin to determine what type of bacteria is causing the condition. Urine, sweat and skin cells can collect under the foreskin to produce an infection.
2. Tell your doctor if you're diabetic. Sugar in your urine can cause balanitis. Your physician may test for diabetes if the balanitis doesn't clear up or reoccurs.
3. Let your physician know if you have allergies. If you have the symptoms of balanitis, testing or skin sampling may be required to rule out allergies or to identify an allergen. Soaps, detergents, condoms, spermicides, lubricants and fabric softeners can all cause allergic reactions.
4. Test for STIs. Sexually transmitted infections can cause balanitis. Your physician may need to rule out an STI and he may send you to a specialist if he believes you might have a STI. Usually if you have an STI, you also have a discharge when you urinate.
5. Check whether you can retract the foreskin. Phimosis is often a common cause of balanitis. This is a problem in young children before the foreskin releases. Dirt and debris collect under the foreskin and create a breeding ground for germs and infection.