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Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran

Consultant Pediatric Urologist in Hyderabad

Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran

Consultant Pediatric Urologist in Hyderabad

Phimosis Symptoms & Treatment

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin of the penis cannot be pulled back to expose the tip. This condition is normal in young children and typically resolves on its own by the age of 6 to 7 years. However, in some cases, it may lead to complications such as ballooning of the foreskin or urinary tract infections, which require medical attention.

Causes of Phimosis

Phimosis is generally a normal physiological condition in children. The foreskin gradually becomes retractable as the child grows. However, certain factors may lead to persistent or pathological phimosis, including:

  1. Subtle Trauma:
    • Repeated minor injuries to the foreskin.
  2. Inflammatory Conditions:
    • BXO (Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans): A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause scarring and tightness of the foreskin, requiring circumcision.

Symptoms of Phimosis

Parents should watch for the following signs that might indicate complications from phimosis:

  • Ballooning of the Foreskin:
    • The foreskin swells like a balloon during urination.
  • Splaying of Urine:
    • A scattered or abnormal urine stream while urinating.
  • Color Change at the Tip:
    • Changes in the skin color at the tip of the penis, which might suggest conditions like BXO.
  • Foreskin nonretractile by the age of 7 years:
    • Skin at the tip of the penis could not be pulled back at ease

Treatment Options

Treatment for phimosis depends on the severity and underlying cause. Common options include:

  1. Non-Surgical Treatment:
    • Steroid Creams:
      • Topical application of steroid creams is effective in most cases for loosening the foreskin and improving retractability.
  2. Surgical Treatment:
    • Circumcision:
      • Recommended when phimosis causes recurrent urinary infections, significant ballooning, or is associated with conditions like BXO.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Parents should consult a pediatric urologist if their child experiences:

  • Persistent ballooning or difficulty urinating.
  • Frequent urinary tract infections.
  • Changes in the appearance of the foreskin, such as scarring or discoloration.
  • Thin stream of urination.

For expert care, contact: Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Consultant Pediatric Urologist and Robotic Surgeon, Hyderabad.

Visit: www.drprabhukarunakaran.com

 

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