Male Yeast Infection: An In-depth Look at Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
While we often hear about yeast infections in women, men too can get them. They can be pretty uncomfortable. If you don’t address this issue, it could turn serious. Are you familiar with the causes, signs, and ways to deal with male yeast infections? If not, it’s high time you get a firm understanding.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into male yeast infections. We’ll talk about what causes them, how to spot them, and how to manage them. We’ll also highlight how they’re different from the female version. Plus, we’ll cover how doctors diagnose them, your possible options for management, and how you can reduce the chances of getting them. We’re also going to tackle common complications and answer some burning questions you might have about the topic.
Yeast infections don’t just target women but men can get them too. What’s vital is knowing what causes these infections, spotting the symptoms early on, and finding the right solution. This will help you stay fit and fine.
Candida albicans is yeast which is a type of fungus. It is a commensal on the skin, in the GUT, and in the reproductive tract. Commensals are microbes that live on or in humans without causing any ill health. When the number of candida present on the male genitalia increases, it is referred to as male yeast infection or male genital candidiasis. This can cause swelling, redness, and other discomforts.
Even though candida is the culprit in both male and female yeast infection cases, it targets different areas in men and women and results in different symptoms. For women, it tends to affect the vagina while in the case of men, it affects the head of the penis or sometimes the foreskin.
Having a yeast infection could hint at other problems. For instance, you might be dealing with diabetes or a weakened immune system. Timely management and staying healthy may help reduce complications.
Did you know?
What triggers a male yeast infection? It’s vital to understand the causes so you can take steps to keep the infection at bay.
A surge in candida may occur when individuals have risk factors like taking antibiotics indiscriminately, having a weak immune system, or following an unhealthy diet can lead to this surge.
If you take antibiotics for a long time, the drug can disrupt the balance of the microbes that live inside your body. Once that balance is off, it allows candida to grow unchecked, leading to an infection.
High sugar levels create the perfect storm for yeast to grow. So, if you suffer from diabetes and your blood sugar levels are not under control, you might get a yeast infection.
If your immune system isn’t strong due to sickness or certain drugs like immunosuppressants, your body may struggle to control candida growth. This can result in a yeast infection.
Although yeast infections are not STIs, you can get one if your partner has an infection.
Candidal balanitis is a commonly reported yeast infection of the glans penis, inadequate personal hygiene, old age, immunocompromised individuals, incomplete previous anti-fungal treatment and uncircumcised individuals are commonly known to suffer from this condition.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
How do you know if you have a yeast infection? Spotting the symptoms early on may help you deal with the issue more effectively. Here are the signs to look out for:
Feeling itchy or uncomfortable around your genitals might be the first sign of a yeast infection.
If you see swelling, redness, or a rash on the penis head, it could be a yeast infection.
If you see a thick, lumpy, white discharge under your foreskin or in the skin folds, you might have a yeast infection.
If peeing causes you pain or discomfort, it could be because of the swelling caused by the yeast infection.
Swelling and reddening of the penis head might be another symptom of a yeast infection.
Here’s a summary table of symptoms for your reference.:
| Symptoms | Description |
| Itching and irritation | Discomfort and itching in the genital area |
| Redness and rash | Swelling, redness, and rash on the penis head |
| White discharge | Thick, lumpy discharge in skin folds |
| Painful urination | Pain or burning sensation when urinating |
| Swelling of the penis head | Red, swollen penis head due to inflammation |
Yeast infections (sometimes called thrush) happen when Candida fungus on your penis grows out of control. The fungus overgrowth can give your penis a “moldy” smell. Other symptoms may include: redness or irritation.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
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You shouldn’t try to diagnose a yeast infection on your own. Instead, see a doctor or healthcare provider to confirm it.
When should you see a doctor for a possible yeast infection? Let’s find out.
If over-the-counter management options aren’t helping, or your symptoms are getting worse, you need to see a doctor. They can give you a correct diagnosis and the right management.
If you keep getting yeast infections, see a healthcare professional. They can check for underlying health problems that might be causing these recurrent infections.
If your symptoms are severe or getting worse, reach out to a doctor for further evaluation.
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It’s critical to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider. They might use various methods to identify if you have a yeast infection. These are as follows:
The doctor will check the affected area for signs of a yeast infection.
A swab test involves taking a sample from the affected area and sending it to a lab for testing. This can confirm if candida is causing the issue and rule out other possibilities.
In some cases, the doctor may order blood tests. This can help identify any underlying health problems like diabetes or a weak immune system that might be causing the yeast infections.
Once a doctor confirms a yeast infection, there are several options available that may help reduce the infection and ease your symptoms. These methods or options are as follows:
These include antifungal creams or pills. Some of them are available as over-the-counter drugs. While others might need a prescription. Always keep in mind to keep your doctor in the loop before starting any kind of medication.
You may apply creams and ointments that fight against fungus, like clotrimazole or miconazole, right on the affected area. This may help reduce symptoms but do this under the guidance of your doctor
For more stubborn or severe infections, the doctor might prescribe oral antifungal medications like fluconazole. We recommend that you consult a doctor before starting any medication.
As with any drug, you could have side effects. If you notice anything unusual or severe effects while taking the medicines, reach out to a healthcare provider.
Some home remedies and natural treatments may provide relief from the infection. However, always check with a healthcare provider before trying any home remedies.
Eating foods rich in probiotics, like yogurt and kimchi, may help boost your body’s good bacteria and maintain balance.
Though it’s unproven, some people may find relief from yeast infection symptoms by applying diluted tea tree oil to the affected area. Research needs to be done to corroborate this.
Some research suggests that garlic supplements might enhance your body’s ability to ward off yeast infections. More research is needed regarding this. It’s always best to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
Coconut oil has properties that are supposed to naturally fight fungus. Applying coconut to the affected area may help with the symptoms and clear up the infection.
In order to make sure no stone is unturned to stop yeast infections from coming back, staying healthy is key. There are some tips given in the subsequent section on how to achieve this. Follow them diligently to reduce the risk of getting frequent yeast infections.
If you ignore a yeast infection, it can lead to other problems like balanitis and invasive candidiasis. That’s why it’s crucial to seek proper treatment.
Balanitis is swellings of the penis head often caused by a yeast infection. Getting a heads-up on the symptoms and treating them quickly can keep further complications at bay.
Balanitis could cause redness, swelling, itchiness, or discomfort in the genital area. Yeast infections are a common cause. Keeping clean and staying healthy may reduce your risk of getting this condition.
For balanitis resulting from a yeast infection, the doctor may prescribe antifungal creams, ointments, or oral medications. Keeping the genitals clean and dry and steering clear of potential irritants may also help.
Invasive candidiasis is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication of a yeast infection. Candida can enter the bloodstream and spread to various organs.
Invasive candidiasis symptoms could include fever, chills, and in severe cases, septic shock. If you have a weak immune system, you’re at a higher risk. If you suspect invasive candidiasis, get medical attention right away.
Invasive candidiasis calls for strong treatment, often with antifungal drugs given through an IV route. Early diagnosis and treatment may stop serious complications tied to invasive candidiasis.
Let’s summarize the complications associated with yeast infections:
| Complication | Symptoms and Risks | Treatment Options |
| Balanitis | Redness, swelling, itching, discomfort in the genital area | Antifungal creams, ointments, oral meds |
| Invasive candidiasis | Fever, chills, septic shock (severe cases) | Intravenous antifungal medications |
Here are some proactive steps to avoid yeast infections:
Wash and dry your genital area regularly it may help reduce candida from growing and spreading.
Following a healthy, low-sugar diet may stop yeast infections by keeping a balance of good and bad bacteria in your body.
Cutting down on sugar intake may curb candida growth and reduce your risk of getting yeast infections.
Invest in your overall health and work to strengthen your immune system. This may reduce your chances of getting yeast infections.
Using condoms during sex may lower the risk of getting sexually transmitted yeast infections.
Using gentle, unscented soaps, shower gels, and lubricants may help reduce skin irritation and reduce the risk of yeast infections.
Loose clothing that lets air in can help keep your genitals dry and cool. This decreases your risk of getting yeast infections.
This table gives a gist of these prevention tips:
| Prevention Tip | Description |
| Regular hygiene practices | Maintain good genital hygiene |
| Proper diet and nutrition | Eat a healthy, low-sugar diet to maintain good bacteria balance |
| Safe sexual practices | Use external condoms during sex to reduce transmission risk |
| Avoiding irritants | Use gentle, unscented products to avoid skin irritation |
| Wearing breathable clothing | Wear loose clothing that lets air in to keep genitals dry |
Spotting a yeast infection early on and seeking help right away may stop complications and keep you healthy. By understanding what causes, yeast infections in men, you may lower your risk and manage this common health issue more effectively.
By maintaining good hygiene, eating healthy, and taking precautionary measures during sex, you may halt the progress of the yeast infections in their tracks. Looking after your health may significantly drop your risk of infection and boost your quality of life.
Also Read: 18 Simple Home Remedies For Fungal Infections!
You may typically apply creams or ointments you get over the counter. Sometimes, you might need medicines prescribed by a doctor. In either case please consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment.
Some minor yeast infections might clear up on their own. But if your symptoms persist or get worse, you need to seek medical help to avoid discomfort and possible complications.
Even though you can get yeast infections through sex, they’re not considered as one. That’s because yeast infections can develop and spread through other non-sexual means.
Balanitis can be caused by yeast or bacteria. A healthcare provider can tell the cause by examining your physical symptoms and by conducting lab tests. It’s crucial to get a swift diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications.
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