Penile yeast infection: symptoms, causes, and treatments

Penile infections with yeast can cause various unpleasant symptoms, but they are frequently cured swiftly with over-the-counter drugs and can be avoided by taking certain precautions, such as practicing appropriate hygiene. Uncircumcised men, men with diabetes, men who are overweight, and men with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to getting a Candida infection with the yeast of the penis. Some cases of male yeast infections are asymptomatic.  Others experience symptoms resembling an infection transmitted sexually (STI), such as penile discomfort, swelling, redness, and a sticky, white discharge. Balanitis is caused by a yeast infection, which causes the top part of the penises to become painful or swollen. Also Read: Can Men Get Yeast Infections?

What are the penile yeast infection symptoms?

Male infections with yeast do not usually result in symptoms. If left untreated, the infection may lead to discomfort and agony. Yeast overgrowth can cause the penile head to become red and swollen (candidal Balanitis). In uncircumcised people, the foreskin can also become infected (candidal balanoposthitis).

• Top of the penis redness and swelling.
• Foreskin sores, broken skin, or bleeding.
• Urine causes a burning sensation.
• Itching.
• The discharge is white, lumpy, and foul-smelling.
• Discomfort while having sex.
• Small rash-like lumps that may contain pus.
• White, shiny patches of skin on the outer layer of the penis.

Redness, itching, and soreness in the penis can be indicators of more serious illnesses, such as certain sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), so don't dismiss them. A urologist and primary care physician may often diagnose the issue in a single visit. Also Read: How to Get Rid of Fungal Infection in Hands?

What causes a penile yeast infection?

The fungus candida typically causes infection with yeast. Candida is normally present in modest amounts throughout the body. Candida overgrowth can result in a yeast infection. Candida thrives in wet environments. Having sex with someone with an infection of vaginal yeast without condoms can result in a penile infection caused by yeast. However, you can become infected without engaging in sexual behavior. Candida fungus is naturally present on human skin and the environment, but infection occurs when conditions are favorable for it to grow. Candida yeast-like warm, damp environments, that's why it's common in places like an exercise facility locker room, and it may easily overgrow in sweating areas of the body. Candida yeast infections can also be transferred between couples during sex. Conversely, Balanitis is not an infection transmitted sexually (STI) and may be caused by factors other than sex.

What are the risk factors that affect penile yeast infection?

Several risk factors can increase men's susceptibility to yeast infections, including:

• Failure to keep genitals clean
• Not having been circumcised.
• Diabetes (diabetics have additional sugar present in their pee, which promotes yeast growth)
• Long-term antibiotic use (which reduces the number of good microorganisms in the body, making it simpler for Candida to flourish)
• Immune system weakness (due to disease, a persistent health condition, or medicine)

• Irritating soaps and skin care items
• Wet garments or tight-fitting pants
• Environments that are hot and humid
• Lubricant-containing condoms
• Spermicides

Not cleansing your genitals and bathing frequently, having a weaker immune system as a result of certain drugs or medical conditions, using antibiotics, Wearing wet garments or tight-fitting pants for an extended period while applying skin creams or cleansers that irritate the skin, diabetics using lubricated condoms being uncircumcised and obese. Also Read: Fungal Infection on Fingertip: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, And Preventions

What is the treatment to treat a penile yeast infection?

In most circumstances, topical antifungal creams and lotions are sufficient to treat an infection. Some antifungal lotions that are suggested for yeast infections

• Miconazole (Cruex, Desenex,Lotrimin AF, Ting Antifungal) is an antifungal medication.
• Clotrimazole (Cruex, Desenex,Lotrimin AF, Anti-Fungal, Lotrimin AF Ringworm) imidazole (Canesten, Selezen)

Most of these are OTC drugs, meaning you won't need a prescription. More severe or over time infections may necessitate prescription medicine. In severe infections, such as those that have progressed to a potentially fatal condition known as Balanitis, oral fluconazole (Diflucan) or hydrocortisone cream can be prescribed. Most antifungal lotions are tolerated well and have few significant adverse effects. However, check the label and ask a physician and chemist what to look for if you have any concerns.  There are a few remedies you can try at home:

• Yogurt: Consuming more probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and kimchi will aid in the replenishment of beneficial bacteria in your body's microbiome. 

• Apple cider vinegar: Antibacterial and antifungal effects of apple cider vinegar have been suggested in test tube research. Dilute it with a tablespoon in a glass with eight of water before drinking. It can be used as a salad dressing.

• Garlic: Taking garlic supplements may help infections with yeast cure up faster, but research is limited. Garlic capsules are available, but always with your healthcare practitioner before taking supplements.

Also Read: Can a Yeast Infection Go Away on Its Own: Try These 3 Home remedies!

How to prevent a penile yeast infection?

Because Candida thrives in wet, warm conditions, good cleanliness can aid in preventing and treating yeast infections. Wash your penis regularly with warm water. After washing, thoroughly dry your penis and put it on clean pants. On your genitals, avoid using fragrant shower gels or soaps. Wear loose-fitting cotton pants or boxers to keep your penis cool and dry and prevent yeast formation. 

When to worry about penile yeast infection?

Consult your doctor if you've never had an infection with yeast before or if your symptoms are severe.  If a male yeast condition does not cure or recurs, it is time to see your doctor. These male yeast-related infections may be a symptom of diabetes or other immune-compromising disorders. Male yeast infections can irritate the prostate gland (chronic prostatitis) if left untreated.

• Phimosis, or foreskin tightening
• Narrowing of the urethral aperture
• Balanitis xerotica obliterans (a condition characterized by white, scaly, itchy areas that might scar) 
• Thicker white patches within the mouth characterize Leukoplakia.

A swab taken from the top region of the penis may be checked if a male yeast infection is severe. If penile sores or red areas fail to recover, a biopsy may be required to rule out malignancy. Also Read: 5 Best Cream for Fungal Infections

Conclusion

Male infections with yeast are uncommon, although they do occur. Redness, soreness, swelling, itching, ulcers, and secretion at the tip of the penis can all be male yeast infection symptoms. Male yeast infections frequently resolve on their own. If not, an OTC or medical prescription may be required. If you've never had a male yeast infection before or if the signs are worsening, visit a doctor before self-treating. Keep the genitals hygienic, cool, and clean to avoid a male yeast spread of infection, and avoid using items with odors and irritants around your penis.