If you are a man above the age of 40 with diabetes type 2, your chances of contracting penile yeast infection increases. Yeast infections have long been linked with women. But men aren’t safe either. The yeast known as candida Albicans is responsible for the yeast infection. Less commonly will a yeast infection grow as a result of other Candida species such as C. Krusei, and C. Glabrata, among others.
Thrush or oral candidiasis is a common type of yeast infection affecting the mouth. However, the yeast infection can affect any part of the body. Men suffer from a common penile yeast infection known as candidal. Candidal, or balanitis, is an infection that occurs when the penile glans are affected. Keep reading to find out more about male yeast infections.
How common is a penile yeast infection?
According to a report from clinical microbiology review, 30 to 35 percent of the penile yeast infection will affect men. Balanitis, or candidal, is caused by a bacteria known as streptococci, and staphylococci. Other infectious sources of candidal include; herpes simplex virus, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
From numerous sources, it’s still not clear how many men contract candida balanitis yearly. Other studies indicate that 16 to 26 percent of men suffer from balanitis. According to a Journal from Family Medicine and Primary Care, 37 percent of those who suffer from the infection do not develop symptoms. However, 27 percent end up developing the symptoms.
Causes of penile yeast infection (candidal balanitis)
Penile yeast infections are usually sexually transmitted. This happens as a result of a sexual relationship with an infected partner. However, balanitis is not sexually transmitted since men can get the infection from any source. For instance, some of the risk factors contributing to the infection include; diabetes, HIV, and antibiotics which kill the good bacteria.
Corticosteroids
Men who haven’t undergone circumcision are predisposed to the infection. Uncircumcised men tend to have a warm and moist environment in their reproductive organs thus leading to yeast growth. Also, men above the age of 40, and have diabetes are at a high chance of catching the infection. Using strong scented perfumes and soaps can irritate the skin.
Male yeast infections
Male yeast infection or candidal balanitis can present itself through some of the following symptoms:
- Burning and itching around the reproductive organ.
- Soreness and swelling
- Tiny bumps are known as papules with pus.
- Painful urination
- Unpleasant odor in the reproductive organ
Men with diabetes can have fluid buildup as well as ulceration in their reproductive organs. They are prone to experience severe symptoms than men without diabetes. Balanitis can cause complications like narrowing of the urethra among others.
The bottom line
Male penile yeast infection is treatable. Antifungal oral medications should be able to clear the infection in due time. However, if it doesn’t go away even with oral treatment, you may have another type of balanitis. Your health care provider should guide you on the right treatment or measure to take in case of stubborn balanitis.