Welcome to this series about Men’s Health. Enjoy the principles and I hope you can learn something new. Enjoy the benefits of good Men’s Health.
Like women, men are also subject to yeast infections. Most yeast infections are the result of a yeast or fungus called, “Candida albicans.” This fungus is normally present in moist areas of the skin. Fortunately, it is not life threatening, and treatment is simple. It is, however, uncomfortable. In what follows, is a discussion of what men need to know when it comes to this topic.
What are the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection in men?
- Head of penis may be reddened
- Itching, pain, or burning of the head of the penis
- Uncomfortable urination
- Uncomfortable sex
- White substance may collect in folds of the penis
Is a yeast infection the same as jock itch?
No, it is not. Although jock itch may also be due to a fungal infection, it is an itchy rash that mainly affects the skin around the groin, including the inner thighs, anus, and/or the genitals.
What risk factors increase the chances of getting a male yeast infection?
- Use of antibiotics –
Antibiotics kill the bad bacteria in your body, but unfortunately, they also kill the good bacteria in your body. This then allows the yeast in your body to take over, causing their overgrowth.
- Certain diseases.
If you have diabetes or diseases that compromise your immune system such as HIV, you are more at risk of developing male yeast infections.
- Poor hygiene –
It is important to clean around the head of the penis and in the folds. Uncircumcised men must pay careful attention to cleansing, as they tend to be more at risk of developing a yeast infection.
- Sex with a partner with a yeast infection.
Women tend to develop vaginal yeast infections, due to antibiotic use, during pregnancy, and during hormone treatment. As such, they can infect their male partners during sexual intercourse.
What do you do if you suspect you have a yeast infection?
It is important that men always get it checked out by a physician, especially the first time it happens, as it may be necessary to rule out other sexually transmitted infections, or other causes for the symptoms you are experiencing.
What treatment is used for the yeast infection?
Just like women, you will need an anti-fungal medication. This medication may come in the form of a cream that is applied directly to the penis, or a medication that is taken orally. See your physician for recommendations.
If your partner also has the yeast infection, she will need to be treated to prevent you from becoming re-infected.
For more blogs please visit www.NicksDigitalSolutions.com and choose Nick’s blog.
For E-Learning material please visit www.NicksDigitalSolutions.com and choose E-Learning Shop, in particular the Health and Wellness option.
Nick Thorne is the founder of NicksDigitalSolutions Limited, a company specializing in Education, Training and Writing. He lives in Levin, New Zealand.