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Balanitis

Balanitis & Penile Infections

Balanitis — irritation or infection of the head of the penis — is uncomfortable and tends to recur when the underlying cause isn't found. We diagnose the cause and treat it, so it stops coming back.

What balanitis is

Balanitis is inflammation of the glans (head of the penis), often with redness, itching, irritation, discharge, or discomfort. It's common and usually treatable — but for many men it keeps returning, because the underlying cause was never pinned down.

We find the cause — not just calm the symptom

A real evaluation

Recurrent balanitis can stem from infection (yeast or bacterial), skin conditions, hygiene factors, irritation, or an underlying issue such as diabetes or, occasionally, a tight foreskin. We evaluate properly — including in-office testing where useful — so we treat the actual driver, not just this week's flare.

Targeted treatment

Depending on the cause, treatment may include the right antifungal or antibiotic therapy, skin-directed care, addressing contributing factors, and clear prevention guidance. When something systemic like blood sugar is involved, we make sure it's flagged and addressed.

Why it matters

Done in the office, not the hospital

Because we have a combined urology and interventional radiology team in-office, we diagnose and treat the large majority of what we do right here — see how our in-office model works.

When to see us

If you've had redness, itching, or irritation of the penis — especially if it keeps coming back — come in for a proper evaluation. Call (212) 991-9991 or book a consultation.

Common questions

What causes balanitis?

It can be caused by yeast or bacterial infection, skin conditions, irritation or hygiene factors, a tight foreskin, or an underlying issue such as diabetes. Finding the specific cause is the key to stopping recurrences.

Why does my balanitis keep coming back?

Recurrent balanitis usually means the underlying cause wasn't identified and addressed. We evaluate properly — including in-office testing where useful — so treatment targets the real driver rather than just the current flare.

Can balanitis be a sign of diabetes?

It can be. Recurrent balanitis, particularly yeast-related, is sometimes associated with elevated blood sugar. When that's a possibility, we make sure it's checked and addressed.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the cause — the right antifungal or antibiotic, skin-directed care, addressing contributing factors, and prevention guidance. Most cases resolve well once the cause is identified.

Is the visit private?

Yes — it's a routine, judgment-free evaluation handled discreetly.

Take care of the basics.

Book a men's-health visit at our Manhattan or Forest Hills office — a simple step that's easy to keep putting off.

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