What could cause a penile tickling sensation in a 5-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 5-year-old complains about tickling in his penis. It seems to be very uncomfortable. The pediatrician says it is not an infection and not sure what it is. He cries and sometimes he begins to pull it. Please help. He is currently on Zyrtec for allergies.

Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There may be some ongoing phimosis or some urine particles in the prepuce of the penis, leading to this feeling. Please apply Betnovate (Betamethasone valerate) skin cream to the prepuce of the child and gently pull the skin backward so that the cream goes into the gap between the prepuce and the head of the penis (prepuce is the extra skin of the uncircumcised penis).

You can look it up on the internet for your knowledge. Also, keep the area between the prepuce and the head of the penis clean by making sure water and soap reach that area while bathing. This technique helps in about 80 percent of cases, so do not worry.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to ilciniq.com.

Since your son was circumcised, this response will change. It is less likely that this cream will work in a circumcised penis. However then, your description holds true in the case of urine particles that may be stuck in the head. In such a case, drinking plenty of water and maintaining cleanliness like washing the head of the penis and making sure water goes into the head (not aggressively) will work.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.