Yeast Infection Symptoms in Males

Even though men do not occur in men as often as they in women, they do happen, and it is important that every man recognize the yeast infection symptoms in males so they can seek treatment as soon as possible.

Male yeast infections are often called penile yeast infection and are a kind of fungal infection that is the result of the overgrowth of Candida that impacts the penis. A variety of conditions exist that can lead to the development of a yeast infection in a male, and there are some symptoms of the yeast infection that may be present.

Causes of yeast infections in males

Yeast infections are caused by Candida, which is a yeast fungus. Even though it is rare, men can get a yeast infection from a female who also has an infection when they have sex without using protection. A number of factors are out there that can elevate a male’s chances of getting a yeast infection. These are:

1. Suppressed Immune System: Males who have a suppressed immune system have greater odds of getting a yeast infection. Some ailments that lead to a suppressed immune system include Lyme disease, HIV, hypothyroidism, and chronic stress.

2. Diabetes: Males who suffer from diabetes are prone to getting yeast infections since the increased amount of sugar in the urine provides more food for the yeast to feat upon.

3. Antibiotics: Males who have been prescribed antibiotics and have been taking them for any length of time can develop yeast infections more often. This is due to the fact that these medicines destroy healthy bacteria in the body and allow the Candida to grow out of control.

Symptoms

Some males will not have any symptoms. If symptoms are present, though, they will typically include:

1. Soreness on the head of the penis

2. White, clumpy discharge from the penis

3. Blisters on the head of the penis

4. Excessive itching on the head of the penis

5. Reddening of the penis

Diagnosis

If there is reason to believe a yeast infection is present, the physician will question the male about what symptoms he is experiencing. The doctor will also question him about the risk factors he might have. In the event that the symptoms match up to a yeast infection, the physician will look at the penis, collect a sample of the discharge, and take it to the laboratory for testing. The lab will test the sample using a microscope to see if Candida is present. The physician might also order a urinalysis if the male is not experiencing any discharge.

Treatment

The same non-prescription medications that women use to remedy yeast infections can be used by men as well. Be sure to take these medications as instructed. If the symptoms do not go away, he should make an appointment with his doctor to get a prescription for antifungal pills like Diflucan or Nizoral. In addition, he can ask the doctor about homeopathic treatments and herbal anti-fungal treatments. Some of these are Genetian violet, organic oregano oil, and organic coconut oil.

Men should also refrain from having sex until the yeast infection has run its course. Men should take care to dry the genital region thoroughly after showering, bathing, or swimming because yeast likes places that are damp. Simply powder the area with talcum to dry it quickly.