• Inflammation of the head of the penis
• Symptoms may include pain, swelling, ulcer of the penis and the inability to pull back the foreskin
• Cause commonly due to poor hygiene in uncircumcised men but may also occur as a result of infection, chemical irritants such as soap, drug allergies or other factors
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males only
• Can occur at any age
• May be mild to severe
• Not life threatening

• Maintain good hygiene habits
• Retract foreskin and soak in warm water daily

FOR ITCHING

• Avoid items or situations that cause you to itch
• Moisturize daily
• Use creams, lotions or gels that soothe and cool the skin
• Avoid scratching
• Cut fingernails short, and consider wearing gloves at night to prevent scratching
• Use mild, fragrance free soap and laundry detergent
• Cover area with cold wet bandages or take a cool bath
• Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Hydrocortisone cream
  • Diphenhydramine

FOR PAIN

• Apply hot or cold packs to the area
• Relaxation techniques
• Distraction
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen