What is paraphimosis? Symptoms, causes and methods

Paraphimosis is a medical emergency that usually occurs in uncircumcised men. In this case, after being pulled back on the glans of the penis, instead of returning to its original place, the foreskin is stuck behind the head of the glans and causes swelling, pain and impaired blood supply. Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam, with experience in treating urinary tract and genital disorders in children and adults, emphasizes that timely diagnosis and treatment of paraphimosis can prevent more serious complications such as tissue necrosis or loss of penis function. How is paraphimosis caused? Paraphimosis often occurs when the foreskin is pulled back and does not return to its original position. As a result, the blood flow in the glans penis is disrupted and severe swelling occurs. Common factors include: Performing a medical examination or cauterization without returning the skin to its original position - Masturbation or sexual activity in uncircumcised people - Skin infections - Inserting a foreign body or hitting the genital area - Failure to observe hygiene in children or the elderly Who is most at risk of paraphimosis? Paraphimosis can occur at any age, but the following groups are more prone to it: - Uncircumcised babies and children whose parents pull back the foreskin by mistake. - Adolescents and young men during sexual activity or masturbation. - Elderly people, especially in a nursing home or hospital, who do not receive adequate genital care. - People who use a urinary catheter. Symptoms of paraphimosis Symptoms of paraphimosis can appear quickly and be severe. The most common symptoms are: - Severe swelling in the head of the penis (glans) - Severe pain when touching or moving the penis - Changing the color of the head of the penis to blue or purple - Inability to restore the foreskin to normal - Impaired urination or urinary retention If you see these symptoms, immediately consult a specialist doctor like Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam. Possible complications if not treated Not treating paraphimosis on time can cause dangerous complications, including: - Necrosis (tissue death): in case of long-term disruption in blood supply - Severe bacterial infections - Permanent damage to the penis - Infertility or sexual disorders - The need for urgent surgery or emergency circumcision Diagnosis of paraphimosis Diagnosis of this disease is usually done by physical examination. The doctor can easily identify the problem by observing the condition of the foreskin, swelling, and blood flow in the glans. In some cases, a urine test or ultrasound is also performed for further evaluation. Paraphimosis treatment methods ### Non-surgical treatment If paraphimosis is diagnosed in the early stages, the following methods can be used: - Cold compress: reducing swelling using ice - Using anti-inflammatory or anesthetic ointments - Massage and gentle pressure to restore the skin to its natural state - Hyaluronidase injection to reduce swelling (in certain conditions) ### Surgical treatment If the swelling is severe or chronic, the following surgical procedures may be required: - Emergency incision to reduce pressure and restore skin - Complete circumcision: as a permanent and preventive solution Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam, with high experience in performing circumcision by various methods including ring, suture and laser, can provide definitive and safe treatment for patients with paraphimosis. Paraphimosis in children In infants and children, especially uncircumcised boys, unnecessary pulling of pubic skin can cause this problem. Parents should avoid pulling back the skin in babies and seek advice from a specialist doctor. Dr. Herman Moghadam always recommends that if circumcision is needed, this operation should be performed under the supervision of an experienced doctor and under sterile conditions to prevent complications such as paraphimosis. Paraphimosis prevention methods By observing the following points, the possibility of paraphimosis can be greatly reduced: - Refraining from forcefully retracting the foreskin in children - Daily hygiene and gentle washing of the penis - Restoring the skin to its original state after examination or catheterization - Circumcision if recommended by a specialist doctor - See a doctor immediately in case of unusual swelling or pain When should we see a doctor? If the foreskin is stuck at the back of the penis and it cannot be returned, or if there is swelling, pain or discoloration in the glans, see a doctor immediately. A delay in treatment can lead to serious injury. Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam, with years of experience in urology and circumcision surgeries, is ready to provide expert advice and immediate treatment of paraphimosis in his office in Tehran. ### Summary Paraphimosis is an emergency but treatable condition. Recognizing the early symptoms, seeing a doctor quickly, and following health principles can prevent irreversible complications. For consultation, treatment or safe circumcision for babies, children or teenagers, you can visit Dr. Kambiz Herman Moghadam.