Phimosis is a condition in men in which the foreskin cannot be retracted due to excessive narrowing of the skin surrounding the head of the penis. This condition can occur in both childhood and adults and can lead to various health problems.
While phimosis is usually congenital, it can sometimes be caused by infections, trauma or aging. If left untreated, phimosis can cause serious problems over time, including difficulty urinating, infections, pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is possible to prevent this condition. So, what health problems can occur if phimosis is not treated? In our article, we will take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of phimosis and the importance of this health problem.
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What are the Causes of Phimosis?
Phimosis is when the skin at the tip of the penis (foreskin) is tighter than normal and cannot be pulled back. This condition is usually congenital, but in some cases it can develop later in life.
Symptoms of phimosis can include difficulty retracting the foreskin, pain, difficulty urinating, risk of infection and inflammation of the penis.
There may also be an inability to fully open the head of the penis or discomfort during sexual intercourse. It is important to treat phimosis as over time it can lead to urinary tract infections or other complications.
What are the Symptoms of Phimosis?
Phimosis is a condition where the head of the penis (glans) is tightly covered by the foreskin and can be caused by several different reasons:
- Congenital Conditions: Phimosis can be congenital in some babies. The foreskin may not develop in such a way that it loosens over time to release the glans.
- Congenital Conditions: Phimosis can be seen in some babies at birth. The foreskin may loosen over time and may not develop to release the glans.
- Inflammations and Infections: Infections or inflammation of the foreskin can cause the tissue to harden and lose its ability to stretch.
- Skin Diseases: Skin diseases can cause the foreskin to lose its elasticity, leading to phimosis. For example, skin diseases such as psoriasis can trigger this condition.
- Age-related changes: With age, some men may develop phimosis as the foreskin loses its elasticity.
In Which Age Groups Is Phimosis Seen?
Phimosis is a condition usually seen in the neonatal period and early childhood. Phimosis, which is congenital in most newborn babies, resolves spontaneously over time. However, it can also be seen in later ages, especially in children between the ages of 3-5, sometimes during adolescence.
In adolescence and adulthood, phimosis can often develop as a result of infections or injuries. Although the incidence of this condition varies with age, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious health problems later in life.
What Treatments Are There For Phimosis?
Phimosis is caused by the skin surrounding the tip of the penis in men being too tight and can lead to various health problems if left untreated. The methods used to treat phimosis vary depending on the severity of the condition and the age of the individual. Below are the treatment options available for phimosis:
- Topical Steroid Creams: In the initial stages of phimosis, skin elasticity can be increased by using topical steroid creams. This treatment can help stretch the skin, reducing the need for surgical intervention.
- Certified Stretching Methods: Exercises to slowly stretch the skin can be effective in some patients. However, this method requires long-term patience.
- Phimosis Surgery (Circumcision): If phimosis is advanced and other treatment methods do not work, circumcision (surgical removal of the skin at the tip of the penis) may be performed.
- Preputial Plastic (Fizmosis Dissolution): Instead of circumcision, the ring of skin at the tip of the penis can be enlarged, usually by partial incision.
- Dilatation Method: In this non-surgical option, the tip of the penis is gently dilated with a special instrument.
Are There Natural Treatments for Phimosis?
Phimosis is a condition in which the tip of the penis narrows and cannot be retracted, and this condition can sometimes be treated with natural methods. However, natural treatment options are usually aimed at alleviating the symptoms and medical intervention may be required depending on the severity of the condition.
Some people may find relief by washing the area with warm water, light massage or stretching exercises. However, these methods are not always effective and sometimes may not prevent the condition from worsening. It is therefore important that people with suspicion or symptoms of phimosis consult a specialist before deciding on treatment.
Does Phimosis Cause Erection Problems If Left Untreated?
If left untreated, phimosis can lead to erection problems over time. Phimosis is a condition in which the skin surrounding the glans penis is narrower than normal, which can cause pain and discomfort when this area is stretched during an erection. This can cause pain during sexual intercourse and have negative effects on sexual function.
In addition, long-term phimosis can cause sexual reluctance and erectile dysfunction with psychological effects. Left untreated, these problems can become more complicated, so it is important that phimosis is treated appropriately.
Does phimosis increase the risk of infection if left untreated?
If phimosis is left untreated, it can increase the risk of infection. Phimosis is a condition in which the head of the penis cannot retract because the foreskin is narrow. This condition can lead to difficult hygiene and may predispose to urinary tract infections and foreskin infections.
In addition, if phimosis is left untreated, the build-up of bacteria in this area can cause inflammation, pain and urinary tract problems. In the long term, untreated phimosis can lead to more serious health problems, so it is important to intervene early.
What Happens If Phimosis Is Not Treated?
If left untreated, phimosis can lead to various health problems over time. Advanced phimosis can make it difficult or completely prevent urination, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections. In addition, the head of the penis can become infected because normal cleanliness and hygiene are not maintained.
Pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse can also occur. Left untreated, phimosis can cause permanent problems and may require surgery. It is therefore important that phimosis is diagnosed and treated early.
What Is The Recovery Period After Phimosis Surgery?
The recovery process after phimosis surgery usually varies from person to person, but is usually completed between 4 and 6 weeks. Depending on the type of surgery, patients may experience mild pain and swelling for the first few days. During this period, it is important to take wound care as recommended by the doctor.
During the first week, patients are expected to avoid heavy activities and follow recommendations to support the healing process. The full recovery process may vary depending on the severity of the surgical intervention and the person’s general health status, but most patients can return to their normal activities within 2-3 weeks.