Paraphimosis is a urological condition that requires medical attention immediately because of severe outcomes and results in future. This occurs when the foreskin is trapped behind the glans and is not able to come back to its normal position. This condition affects intact boys and men and may increase rapidly, causing discomfort and potential tissue damage. This may also cause swelling, pain and tightness, which leads to restricted blood flow to the glans and results in damaging the tissue if not treated properly. It is considered an urological emergency that requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications. This blog focuses on symptoms, causes and treatment and provides you with the essential information which helps you to recognise and address the condition at the right time. By understanding all these aspects, you and your loved ones can effectively manage this condition.
Symptoms Of Paraphimosis
The symptoms of paraphimosis require proper medical attention.
Swelling: The glans becomes swollen due to the trapped foreskin that restricts the flow of blood.
Pain: There is pain in the penis because of a trapped foreskin over the glans.
Discolored: The glans becomes reddish because of limited blood flow.
Constriction band: The band of the foreskin is visibly compressing the base of the glans.
If you observe these symptoms, then medical help is advised to reduce further complications such as necrosis and tissue damage.
Causes Of Paraphimosis
This condition occurs when the foreskin retracts behind the glans of the penis and is unable to come back to its normal position. Several causes are:-
Improper Handling: When paraphimosis happens after a medical procedure, it is due to the foreskin not being handled properly after being pulled back. This is common in penile examinations and catheterisations.
Infections: Infections are responsible for inflammation, which makes it difficult for the foreskin to return to its original position.
Poor Hygiene: Poor hygiene is responsible for swelling and infection, which contribute to the risk of paraphimosis.
Tight Foreskin: A naturally tight foreskin that is not able to retract easily can also make you prone to paraphimosis when it is forcibly retracted.
Oedema: This is the condition causing generalised swelling, such as renal disease or heart failure and leads to paraphimosis due to the accumulation of fluid.
Complications Arise From Paraphimosis.
If paraphimosis is not treated properly, then it may cause severe complications. These complications are due to restricted blood flow. The complications associated with paraphimosis are:-
Ischaemia: The tight foreskin can cut off the supply of blood, which leads to tissue ischaemia. This causes complications if not treated at the right time.
Bacterial Infection: Restricted blood flow may lead to bacterial infection. Infections can lead to complicated conditions and require additional treatment.
Conclusion
Paraphimosis is a severe condition that requires medical treatment on an immediate basis to prevent complications for the future, such as infection or tissue damage. Early diagnosis can reduce the risk of severe complications and ensure better recovery. If you are experiencing the symptoms of paraphimosis, then without any hesitation, seek medical care. At Sanjiwani Health Centre, under the guidance of Dr. S S Jawahar and our team, you get comprehensive support and care for all urological conditions. We offer a personalised approach to ensure the best and most positive outcomes for our patients.
FAQ’S
Why does this cause permanent damage?
Due to the restricted blood flow without the supply of fresh blood, tissues begin to die.
What are the severe complications of untreated paraphimosis?
The severe complications are amputation, deformity and penile gangrene.