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Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans penis (head of the penis).
Uncircumcised men are more at risk for balanitis due to the presence of the foreskin. The snug fit of the foreskin around the top of the penis tends to create a damp, warm environment that encourages the growth of microorganisms. Most of the organisms associated with balanitis are already present on the penis, but in very small numbers. However, if the area between the head and foreskin is not cleansed thoroughly on a regular basis, these organisms can multiply and lead to infection.

Certain circumstances may make a male more susceptible to getting balanitis, these include:
1.Uncircumcised men: area under the foreskin is warm and moist, making it ideal conditions for the growth of organisms (usually Candida albicans) that cause balanitis.
2.Poor personal hygiene
3.Diabetes
4.Chemical irritants, e.g. soap, lubricating jelly
5.Obesity

Its symptoms include:
1.redness of foreskin or penis
2.other rashes on the head of the penis
3.foul-smelling discharge
4.painful penis and foreskin

Balanitis is usually diagnosed based on a brief physical examination.
A urine test may be recommended to evaluate glucose (sugar) levels in the urine.

Chronic inflammation or infection can:

1.Scar and narrow the opening of the penis (urethral stricture)
2.Make it difficult and painful to retract the foreskin to expose the tip of the penis(phimosis)
3.Make it difficult to reposition the foreskin to cover the head of the penis (paraphimosis); swelling can affect the blood supply to the tip of the penis

Chronic inflammation or infection can:

1.Scar and narrow the opening of the penis (urethral stricture)
2.Make it difficult and painful to retract the foreskin to expose the tip of the penis(phimosis)
3.Make it difficult to reposition the foreskin to cover the head of the penis (paraphimosis); swelling can affect the blood supply to the tip of the penis