Yeast Infection in Men

Introduction

Yeast infections are fungal infections generally caused by a certain group of fungi that comes under the yeast category. Though they are frequently encountered in the female body, they can also cause infections in males. In males, yeast infections are mainly seen in association with the male sex organ- penis.

What Is Yeast?

Yeast is a fungus capable of causing health issues in both males and females. Yeast that commonly affects males is Candida albicans. It mainly affects the penis, causing uneasiness and aches.

What Is Meant by a Male Yeast Infection?

A male yeast infection is a form of yeast infection in males affecting the so-called penis head and the extra tissue fold seen at the tip (foreskin). It is also known by the technical term candidiasis, which is brought about by the fungus Candida albicans. These fungi are routinely seen in very small numbers in the skin, oral cavity (mouth), and intestinal tract. However, when the condition becomes favorable for their growth, they grow profusely, leading to infections. Warmth and moisture are essential for its growth; hence, they mostly develop in moist skin areas.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With a Male Yeast Infection?

It exhibits all the symptoms of an infection- tenderness, color change, and swelling.

• Penis appears somewhat swollen and edematous.

• Unpleasant scratchy sensation (itching) creating extreme discomfort.

• Aching penis, especially during sexual contact.

• Burning kind of sensation in the penis that aggravates while passing urine.

• Small crack-like lesions on the foreskin.

• Foreskin seems adherent to the underlying tissue, making it difficult to retract.

• The white-colored discharge comes underneath the foreskin thick and curdy which resembles cottage cheese.

• Foul-smelling discharge.

• The penile tip always appears to be moist.

• White-colored speckles are seen over the skin of the penis.

• Penile erection becomes painful and difficult, and so does sex.

How Does It Develop?

Yeast infection takes the upper hand when the body's immunity is compromised for other reasons like long-term illness. Yeast infections are more common in females and often cause vaginal infections. A male partner can acquire yeast infection from an infected female through unprotected sexual contact. However, yeast infections do not fall under the category of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

What Are the Associated Risk Factors?

Certain factors increase the possibility of developing yeast infections in men. Some of the salient risk factors include:

• Extended antibiotic use acts as a check over the normal flora while simultaneously boosting candidal growth.

• Diabetes patients are more prone to develop yeast infections because of elevated sugar levels in the blood.

• Obesity enhances the risk of developing infections.

• Long-term steroid usage results in the repression of the immune system.

• Compromised personal hygiene is an important factor in the development of yeast infection. Therefore, it is essential to keep the private parts clean to prevent getting infected with fungus or bacteria.

• Chronic diseases affect the body's general immunity, like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections.

• Usage of extremely tight-fitting inners makes the environment favorable for fungus growth.

• Sensitive skin is prone to develop fungal infections. In addition, sensitive skin shows excessive allergic responses toward soaps and other personal hygiene products.

• An uncircumcised penis is associated with a higher risk for the development of fungal infections as it is difficult to maintain hygiene.

• Using contraceptives like condoms without sufficient lubricants enhances the risk of yeast infection.

How Is the Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

Medical history and clinical examination throw light into the diagnosis as it is a highly symptomatic lesion. Sometimes doctors advise microbiological analysis of the swab from the penis tip to detect the presence of fungus and to rule out other possibilities.

What Are the Effective Interventions Available for the Treatment of Yeast Infections?

Sometimes the yeast infection may resolve independently and does not exhibit severe symptoms. However, at times the symptoms persist and trouble the person. In that case, proper medical attention and treatment should be undertaken to control the progression of the disease and to prevent the development of complications. It resolves within a week or two if treated at the right time with appropriate therapy. As it is a fungal infection, antifungal medicines in the form of cream or gel are prescribed. Routinely prescribed antifungal creams include Miconazole, Clotrimazole, and Imidazole. They are available in the market under numerous brand names. Some of these medicines are available in pharmacies as over-the-counter drugs that do not require a prescription. Antifungal tablets or topical steroids are preferred in more resistant and recurrent cases. Intravenous (via veins) administration of the antifungal drugs is considered when complications arise.

Can We Prevent Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections in men are preventable to some extent. Keeping the penis clean is an effective measure that can keep yeast infections way far. Always develop the habit of keeping it dry even after having sex or after bathing because moisture and warmth attract yeast growth. Prefer cotton innerwear rather than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, as they can trap moisture and heat. Never wear wet and tight undergarments. They can attract fungal growth. Avoid the usage of harsh chemicals, soaps, and personal hygiene products, as they can cause irritations in the penis. While having sex with a partner infected with yeast, prefer a condom. So that infection does not pass on.

What Are the Possible Complications That Could Arise From Yeast Infections?

Yeast infections can potentially develop into serious complications. Though complications are not a common thing, they develop rarely. Some of the serious complications include:

• Invasive Candidiasis - Candidemia is a synonym for invasive candidiasis. It develops when the localized infection extends into the circulation, often demanding hospitalization. It is alarming because once the infection enters the blood, it can easily spread to other organs.

• Balanitis - Untreated yeast infections may ultimately end in balanitis, which depicts infection and inflammation in the head portion of the penis.

Conclusion

Yeast infections in men generally affect the private part (external genitalia) and create trouble and distress. In addition, it is an embarrassing situation; hence, most patients feel reluctant to open up and seek treatment. Furthermore, it may end up with more complications. Therefore, prevention and prompt treatment are the key factors in tackling yeast infections in men.