Male Yeast Infections: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Fast Treatments

Yeast infections aren’t exclusive to women; men can also develop them. Male yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans, a naturally occurring fungus in the human body. Though more common in women, men are not immune to this condition. These infections typically affect the genital area but can occur in other parts of the body, especially in moist and warm environments.

What Causes Male Yeast Infections?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of a yeast infection in men:

Unprotected Sexual Contact

• Yeast infections are not classified as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but men can develop them after sexual contact with a partner who has a yeast infection.

Poor Hygiene

• Insufficient cleaning of the genital area or leaving it moist for extended periods can promote yeast growth.

Uncircumcised Men

• The foreskin can trap moisture and provide an ideal environment for yeast to thrive.

Diabetes

• High blood sugar levels can increase the risk of yeast infections as sugar promotes fungal growth.

Weakened Immune System

• Conditions such as HIV, cancer treatments, or prolonged use of medications like steroids can lower immunity and make infections more likely.

Use of Antibiotics

• Antibiotics disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, allowing yeast to overgrow.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Male Yeast Infection

Symptoms of a male yeast infection often appear on the penis but can also occur elsewhere. Common symptoms include:

• Genital itchiness
• Redness and swelling of the foreskin or head of the penis (balanitis)
• Trouble pulling back the foreskin
• Cracking or bleeding of the foreskin
• White, foul-smelling discharge
• Small rash-like bumps on the penis, sometimes pus-filled
• Pain during urination
• Pain during sex

When balanitis in uncircumcised men is severe, it can lead to the inability to retract the foreskin (phimosis) or the inability to return the foreskin to its normal position (paraphimosis). Paraphimosis is a medical emergency.

Treatment of Male Yeast Infections

Male yeast infections are mainly treated with antifungal drugs applied directly to the skin of the penis. Depending on the severity, an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antifungal cream, lotion, or ointment may be recommended. Some may also need to take an antifungal by mouth to fully kill the fungus.

Among the topical antifungals your doctor may recommend are:

• Desenex (miconazole)
• Lotrimin (clotrimazole)
• Selezen (imidazole)

These medications are applied to the affected skin and can usually resolve an infection within seven to 21 days. If these topical antifungals fail to provide relief or your immune system is compromised, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal like Diflucan (fluconazole) for seven to 14 days.

To protect others and give your body a chance to heal, avoid sex until the infection is fully resolved. Having sex with a penile yeast infection may not only transmit the fungus to the vagina but to the anus as well.

Preventing Male Yeast Infections

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of yeast infections in men. Maintaining a healthy weight is one way to reduce the risk.

Diabetes is also linked to penile yeast infections. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels are thought to contribute to the overgrowth of yeast. Preventing diabetes and maintaining good blood sugar control if you have diabetes may help reduce the risk of a penile yeast infection.

Using condoms during sex may help prevent penile yeast infections.

Proper hygiene can also help. This includes washing the penis and foreskin thoroughly with warm water and drying the area completely. Avoid irritating soaps, deodorizers, or perfumed lotions. Wear breathable underwear to keep the penis and groin dry.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

It helps to see a doctor if the symptoms are severe or unusual. If the problem is related to a tight foreskin, circumcision may be recommended.

If you decide to self-treat and OTC treatments don’t work, or the yeast infection recurs, it’s important to see a doctor for an evaluation.

Key Takeaways

Male yeast infections, also known as penile thrush or penile candidiasis, are caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans. This can lead to redness, swelling, and itching of the penis and foreskin, as well as a foul-smelling discharge and small rash-like bumps. Uncircumcised men are more commonly affected.

Male yeast infections are usually treated with topical antifungals, though severe cases may require an oral antifungal. Good hygiene, weight loss, and the consistent use of condoms can help reduce your risk of penile thrush.https://blackairreviews.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-vaginal-yeast-infections-causes-symptoms-and-effective-treatmen

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not substitute professional medical advice. For specific concerns about your health, consult a qualified healthcare provider.