Balanitis is an inflammation of the foreskin that surrounds the head of the penis in uncircumcised men. However, not everyone agrees with this statement. For example, some consider balanitis to be inflammation of the glans only, while inflammation of the foreskin is defined as postitis. In cases where the inflammation affects both structures, we speak of balanoposthitis. Men who are prone to balanitis are those with congestive heart failure, nephritis, cirrhosis, diabetes or obesity. High blood sugar levels predispose to the development of bacterial and fungal infections, especially in men with poorly controlled diabetes. This is because they have high levels of glucose in their urine. Also, balanitis can be a distinctive clinical feature in men with reactive arthritis or occur as a result of sexually transmitted diseases. The question of whether balanitis is contagious is complicated, as it depends primarily on the root cause. For example, balanitis caused by bacteria normally found on the skin of the penis or balanitis caused by chemical skin irritants are usually considered non-infectious. While balanitis caused by certain fungi (yeasts) or specific bacteria and viruses (including those that cause sexually transmitted diseases (such as gonorrhea)) can be passed from one person directly to another. How can you tell if you have balanitis? The weather, required for the appearance of symptoms after infection (incubation period), differs for different viruses, bacteria or fungi. The first signs and symptoms of balanitis include redness, itching, swelling (swelling), sensitivity of the head of the penis or the skin of the foreskin of the specific causes, the disease can also appear with the appearance of lymph tissue from the urethra, the appearance of sores on the head of the penis, can also develop in a number of sexually transmitted diseases In these cases, it is extremely important to distinguish balanitis from other diseases such as herpes or gonorrhea. is “cured”. The time for complete recovery varies depending on the nature of the infectious agent. The recommended treatment time varies from 2 weeks to 1 month, and in more severe cases a combination of medications may be used. If you have even the slightest doubt that you are suffering from balanitis, you should immediately seek medical help. Balanitis symptoms that persist and worsen over time should be evaluated by a medical professional. Complications of the disease include narrowing of the opening of the urethra (phimosis) and severe urinary obstruction.