Candidiasis also referred to as thrush or yeast infection is a fungal infection precipitated by Candida albicans, a species of Candida. Candidiasis can affect different parts of the body encompassing female or male genital area. Penile candidiasis is fairly common.
Signs and symptoms of thrush in men.
- Red patches and spots at the tip of the penis
- If not treated, the spots may later grow into craters or small lumps.
- Red skin around the tip of the penis
- The tip of the penis becomes uncomfortable and very itchy. There is soreness and irritation.
- Inflammation of the tip of the penis
- Light pain or discomfort during urination
- Penile discharge
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Unpleasant odor
Causes of male candida
In men, penile candidiasis occurs due to several factors. Some of these causes include;
Changes in the immune systems of an individual. This can occur due to taking antibiotic medications or when an individual’s immune system is compromised. Antibiotics usually predisposes an individual to infections because they may destroy some normal flora in the human body.
Males who are HIV positive or those with diabetes and other conditions which weaken the immune system have higher risks of developing male thrush.
Moisture and humidity Candida thrive in moist and warm environment. It is for this reason why it is worthwhile to dry all parts of the body after bathing and washing. Men who are circumcised are less prone to genital yeast infections. Thus, circumcision may be one of the steps males can make to reduces chances of thrush development or to stop candida.
Skin irritation as a result of using perfumed soaps and gels can damage the penile skin. This increases the chances of thrush development because candida often thrives in already damaged skin.
Penile candidiasis is usually not a serious condition but it is vital to seek medical attention when symptoms show up for the first time. This may be a sign of undiagnosed conditions like diabetes or another kind of infection.
Treatment of Penile Candidiasis
Several treatment options are available for yeast infection. These include; antifungal creams, male thrush is treated with antifungal creams.
The symptoms usually subside after the first week; however, treatment should proceed for around 5-6 days after the disappearance of the symptoms to prevent recurrences. In some instances, mild burning sensations are felt.
Corticosteroid creams are sometimes prescribed if itching is very severe. Corticosteroids are worthwhile anti-inflammatory medications.
Good personal hygiene is also very critical in the process of cure. After careful and thorough washing with warm water, the affected part should be dried thoroughly. Loose Underwear made from cotton should be worn during this period.
Avoid sexual intercourse during the period of treatment because symptoms may become worse or the infection can spread to the other parts of the body. Use of condom is highly recommended during treatment or shortly after treatment to curb infection. Partners are also supposed to be treated.
During treatment, foods with high sugar content or rich in yeast should be avoided. It is also vital to avoid carbohydrate rich foods until the symptoms disappear.
