Hello, I'm a medical professional with a focus on urology. Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis, also known as the glans. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Poor hygiene: Not cleaning the genital area properly can lead to a buildup of smegma, a substance that can cause irritation and infection.
2. Allergic reactions: Some men may experience balanitis due to an allergy to certain soaps, detergents, or materials used in condoms or underwear.
3. Infections: Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can cause balanitis. For example, the fungus Candida albicans can lead to a yeast infection in the genital area.
4. Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes can increase the risk of developing balanitis due to the higher sugar levels in the blood and urine, which can promote fungal growth.
5. Skin conditions: Eczema or psoriasis can affect the genitals and cause balanitis.
6. Sexual transmitted infections (STIs): Certain STIs like herpes or syphilis can result in genital sores and inflammation.
It's important to maintain good genital hygiene, avoid irritants, and seek medical advice if you suspect an infection or have persistent symptoms.
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