What initial treatment is recommended for paraphimosis?

The recommended initial treatment for paraphimosis is the compression of the glans, which helps to reduce swelling and restore the foreskin to its normal position. In paraphimosis, the foreskin is retracted behind the glans and cannot be returned to its original position, leading to potential complications like ischemia or necrosis of the glans. The application of gentle compression can help facilitate venous return, decrease edema, and allow the foreskin to slide back over the glans.

While other treatments may be considered for paraphimosis, they are typically not first-line approaches. For instance, surgical intervention is usually reserved for cases where non-surgical methods fail or if there is significant tissue compromise. The use of topical antibiotics or oral antihistamines does not address the immediate problem of the retracted foreskin and is not appropriate for treating this condition. Hence, applying compression is both a safe and effective initial strategy in managing paraphimosis.