Paraphimosis: symptoms, causes, treatment

Definition

What is paraphimosis?

Paraphimosis is a condition when the foreskin cannot be pulled back onto the head of the penis. Can cause the foreskin to swell and get stuck, thus preventing optimal blood circulation to the penis. This condition is dangerous if not treated immediately.

How common is paraphimosis?

Paraphimosis often occurs in uncircumcised men, especially children and the elderly. The chances of developing this condition can be reduced if you avoid risk factors. Always consult a doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of paraphimosis?

The main problem with this disorder is the difficulty in pulling the foreskin back in front of the head of the penis. But other symptoms include:

Swelling of the penis or foreskin
Pain in the penis
The head of the penis turns red or black-and-blue in color

In addition, there are also some characteristics and symptoms that are not mentioned above. If you have the same complaint, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience any of the symptoms described above or have other questions, please consult a doctor. Everyone has a different body reaction. Consulting a doctor is the best thing you can do.

Cause

What causes paraphimosis?

Paraphimosis is caused by:

Wounds in the penis area
The foreskin is often not pulled again after urinating or cleaning
Infection can be caused by the penis that is not cleaned properly

Risk factors

What increases my risk for paraphimosis?

Some of the risk factors below can affect your chances of getting paraphimosis, namely:

Not circumcised
Improper or imperfect circumcision
Children or elderly

The absence of risk does not mean that you are free from possible exposure to disease. The features and symptoms listed are for reference only. You need to consult a doctor for more information.

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for paraphimosis?

The head of the penis will be squeezed. If the technique is ineffective, the foreskin will be forcibly removed. However, in most cases, the doctor will only pull the foreskin by applying lubricant to the penis and foreskin to make it smooth. This technique will cause pain, so the patient is usually under the influence of painkillers. The doctor will try to reduce the swelling by using an ice pack; however, if the swelling is severe, hyluronidase (a type of enzyme that helps reduce swelling) will be injected. If the condition is too severe, the foreskin will be completely removed (circumcised).