A fungal infection caused by a yeast known as Candida that affects men is called a male yeast infection. Those who develop this infection often experience a red and itchy rash on the head of the penile. Usually, Candida grows and thrives in warm and moist environments (such as the foreskin of uncircumcised men). In most cases, the male yeast infection is treated with antifungal creams.
While most people think yeast infections can occur in females only, they can also affect males. The medical term for yeast infections that affect men is Candida balanitis, which is a type of Candida that causes yeast infections. Moreover, an inflammation or infection of the head of the penis (glans penis) is called Balanitis.
While Candida does not cause problems in healthy people, it may begin to grow on certain surfaces of the skin. In most cases, it is found in damp and creased areas (including the foreskin of the penis).
This infection affects males quite commonly. Approximately 3% to 11% of males will have a yeast infection at some point in their lives.
What Are The Symptoms of a Male Yeast Infection?
While the primary symptoms of a male yeast infection are pain, swelling, and redness in the groin area, it may also cause other symptoms. Check some examples below:
- Itching, burning, or irritation around the head of the penile and under the foreskin
- White and thick discharge that resembles cottage cheese
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Difficulty pulling back the foreskin
- Shiny sores or blisters on the penile
Sometimes, people with a yeast infection may notice skin peeling. Moreover, this infection can make your skin more vulnerable. If you experience any of the previous symptoms, do not hesitate to visit a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
This yeast infection is caused by Candida that often grows and thrives in warm and moist environments. Commonly, men develop this infection due to Candida balanitis (mostly affects uncircumcised men). However, there are other factors that may allow Candida to grow. Examples include:
- Harsh soaps
- Poor hygiene
- Not drying off thoroughly
- Not rinsing soap off your foreskin completely
- Irritation or damage to the skin
- Having sex with infected people
In addition, healthcare professionals have identified some factors that may increase your risk of developing it. Examples include:
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune system (often caused by cancer treatments, steroids, or HIV/AIDS)
- Antibiotics
- Obesity
- Wearing tight/damp clothes
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Corticosteroids
- Uncircumcised men
- Age – Children under 4 years old are at increased risk of developing yeast infections
- Phimosis
What Are The Long-term Effects of a Male Yeast Infection?
Usually, people with yeast infections are embarrassed, but it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, people with yeast infections may also experience some complications, especially if they leave it untreated. Examples include:
- Urethral stricture (narrowed urethra)
- Secondary bacterial infections
- Systemic spread (invasive candidiasis)
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland)
- Skin changes (such as scarring and lesions)
The previous list does not contain a complete list of male yeast infection complications. However, not everyone who develops this infection will experience the complications listed above. In any case, you can take steps to reduce the risk of developing them.
How to Prevent a Male Yeast Infection?
One sure way to prevent yeast infections is to keep the groin area clean and dry. However, doctors may recommend other tips to reduce the risk. For example:
- Practice good hygiene
- Avoid harsh products on the genitals
- Pull back the foreskin when bathing to clean and dry the area thoroughly
Diagnosis
Commonly, the diagnosis of a male yeast infection begins with a physical examination to check for abnormalities linked to the disease (such as a red rash). Doctors may also collect a sample of the infected area for testing. To get a sample of tissue, doctors often use a scalpel or tongue depressor to gently scrape some skin from the affected area. Thus, a pathologist will check this sample under a microscope for fungi.
Treatment
Usually, doctors prescribe antifungal medications to treat this yeast infection. These include antifungal creams, ointments, or lotions that are applied to the affected area. However, there are over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medicines, but they do not help everyone who develops yeast infections. When the symptoms do not improve, doctors may prescribe one of the following medicines. For example:
- Miconazole
- Clotrimazole
- Nystatin
Rarely, physicians may prescribe an oral antifungal medicine (such as Fluconazole) or a steroid cream to improve the symptoms. Generally, it is important to keep your genital area clean and dry, as it helps prevent recurrent yeast infections. Sometimes, people may develop yeast infections frequently. In such cases, doctors recommend circumcision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a male yeast infection last?
Usually, the infection clears within 2-3 weeks after starting the treatment. Moreover, this infection is difficult to control, and it may return even after a successful treatment, especially in uncircumcised people.
What can I expect if I have a male yeast infection?
While some people get rid of a yeast infection with over-the-counter medicines at home, others need treatment in the hospital. In more severe cases, people need prescription medicines to treat the infection.
What are the signs of a man having a yeast infection?
- Redness and intense itching
- Soreness
- A white discharge from the penile
- Swelling on the penis (especially under the foreskin)
- Burning while urinating
If you have any other questions, ask your healthcare provider.
