An Impaired Immune System
Individuals with a weak immune system caused by age, a few medications, or health conditions are more likely to experience the overgrowth of the candida fungus. It would be harder to combat disease with an impaired immune system.
For instance, those who take TNF inhibitors for autoimmune diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or corticosteroids for asthma have higher chances of yeast overgrowth. In addition, individuals with HIV/AIDS and cancer are also more vulnerable to recurring yeast infections.
Male Yeast Infection Causes And Risk Factors
Candida albicans is a common fungus. Youâve probably got a small amount living in your mouth, digestive tract, or on moist parts of your skin. Women often have some in their . Most of the time, candida doesnât cause any problems. But if too much of it grows in one place, you get a yeast infection.
You could get this inside your mouth or as a skin infection. Men can also get a yeast infection on the tip of their . This leads to balanitis. Itâs more common in men who arenât circumcised and have a foreskin thatâs still intact.
Youâre more likely to get a yeast infection if you:
- Have been taking antibiotics for a long time
- Are sensitive to soaps, perfumes, and chemicals
You can also get a yeast infection on your through sex. If your partner has one, they could pass it on to you.
How To Get Rid Of A Yeast Infection
If youre a woman, youve got a pretty good chance of experiencing a yeast infection at some point in your lifetime. Vaginal yeast infection, or candidiasis, is a very common condition and can cause skin rashes, itchiness and irritation, and strange-looking discharges. It can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable condition to have, but luckily, its very treatable and typically goes away in just a few days with medications. Knowing the symptoms and what to look for are important to be able to diagnose and treat them quickly. Below are answers to some common questions about yeast infections.
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When To Seek Medical Attention For Balinitis
The aforementioned home remedies can work wonders in mild cases of balanitis. However, relying solely on home remedies is not a wise choice if your symptoms are severe. It is always better to discuss the issue with a medical professional in order to root out any serious complications.
Your doctor will assess the root cause of the problem and then suggest appropriate treatment options. If balanitis in your case is a result of improper hygiene and even after prolonged treatment, if the problem persists, your doctor may suggest undergoing circumcision.
Circumcision is nothing to fret about. It is an established medical procedure and cures the problem of balanitis permanently. With techniques like laser circumcision, the procedure has become absolutely safe and simple. Therefore, while choosing the treatment options, make a well-informed decision.
When To Call Your Healthcare Provider
Home remedies for yeast infections should work within a week, as is the case with most OTC yeast infection treatments. If you are still experiencing symptoms, see your healthcare provider.
Your practitioner may be able to prescribe Diflucan , an antifungal oral medication that can usually treat a yeast infection in one dose. But if yeast infection treatment still isn’t working, it may be because you don’t have a yeast infection.
Bacterial vaginosis, sexually transmitted infections, skin disorders, and other conditions can sometimes present with similar symptoms to those of a yeast infection. Some of these infections can have serious complications when left untreated.
If you notice that you are experiencing frequent yeast infections, see your gynecologist. You may need a more long-term antifungal treatment to wipe out the infection and prevent future ones.
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Treatments: What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of A Yeast Infection
The most common treatment for a penile yeast infection is antifungal cream, such as miconazole or clotrimazole, that you apply to the infected area once daily for one to three weeks or as directed by your healthcare provider. These treatments are typically available over-the-counter .
Some types of antifungal treatments can also be prescribed by a healthcare provider. If your symptoms are particularly severe or your yeast infection returns, a healthcare provider might prescribe oral fluconazole and topical steroids .
What If I Keep Getting Yeast Infections
A yeast infection is considered to be chronic if you get one four or more times within one year. The same things that can contribute to normal yeast infections can also cause them to be chronic taking regular medications, hormone therapy or pregnancy, or having a condition that affects your immune system.
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Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another excellent home remedy for balanitis. It is particularly beneficial in the cases of balanitis caused due to Candida infections. The topical use of apple cider vinegar provides relief from the swelling and pain of balanitis. Apple cider vinegar also has anti-fungal properties that help fight the infection. All you need to do is mix apple cider vinegar with a little water and then apply it to the irritated penile region.
Preventing A Yeast Infection Naturally
The best treatment for yeast infections is prevention. To lower your risk of developing a yeast infection:
- Wear cotton underwear that is not too tight and is breathable
- Change out of sweaty workout clothes or wet bathing suits right away
- Avoid scented soaps and detergents
- Change pads and tampons often
- When using the bathroom, always wipe from front to back
- Avoid spending too much time in hot tubs and very hot baths
- Minimize yeast-promoting foods in your diet, such as alcohol and sugar
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Whats The Difference Between A Yeast Infection And A Uti
While some of the symptoms between a TI and a yeast infection are similar, they are two distinct conditions. A UTI occurs when bacteria invade the urinary tract, causing pain when urinating, feeling a frequent need to urinate, and foul-smelling urine. UTIs may also lead to fever, lower back pain, and even nausea or vomiting when serious.
While yeast infections also can cause pain when urinating, youll also likely feel itchiness and swelling around your vaginal area too, and instead of foul-smelling urine, you might experience an odorless white discharge.
Although the two are unrelated, sometimes, treatment for a UTI, which often involves taking antibiotics, may actually lead to a yeast infection, since antibiotics can kill off the good bacteria that keep yeast growth in control.
What Are Yeast Infections
Yeast is a type of microscopic fungi, and most yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida albicans. This fungus is present in all healthy vaginas and is kept in check by other bacteria. But, at times, this equilibrium can be disrupted due to causes such as antibiotic use and hormone imbalance like during pregnancy. This can result in an overgrowth of yeast, causing an infection.
Typical symptoms of a yeast infection include:
- Painful urination
- Redness of the vulva
- Thick, white discharge
The typical treatment for a yeast infection is an antifungal medication usually a cream. Over-the-counter creams include Monistat and prescription creams include terconazole. Some patients may also be prescribed a one-time dose of an oral antifungal, such as fluconazole.
But, for those who would prefer to treat their yeast infection naturally, here are the home remedies that may work and the ones that don’t.
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When Should I Worry About A Yeast Infection
Generally, yeast infections are not life-threatening. People usually feel better after a few days of treatment. However, there are cases when the infection enters the normally sterile bloodstream and causes symptoms like fever and chills or respiratory problems. This could lead to system-wide infection that needs more aggressive treatment
If you have symptoms of a yeast infection in any part of your body, set an appointment with a doctor. In case visiting a clinic or hospital is not yet a practical option, consider booking our telemedicine service where one of our doctors can attend to you online.
Can A Yeast Infection Go Away On Its Own
Mild versions of yeast infections have the chance of going away on their own, explains Dr. Sonpal. However, it is not recommended to ignore a yeast infection because it is most likely to return if not medically treated.
While some individuals may choose to try home remedies for yeast infection or over-the-counter treatments, there are certain people who should visit the doctor when they have symptoms of a yeast infection. These patients include:
- Those who have recurring yeast infections
- Those who were possibly exposed to a sexually transmitted disease
- Women who are unsure if their symptoms are from a yeast infection
- Women who do not have success with home remedies or over-the-counter medicines
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes or a weakened immune system due to certain medications or conditions such as HIV
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Causes Of Male Yeast Infections
Its not as common for men to be affected with yeast infections, however it does happen. Certain foods, including beer, breads, and some dairy products, can promote higher levels of yeast growth, which may result in a yeast infection.
The main cause of male yeast infection is sexual contact. Having unprotected sex with a woman who has a yeast infection may result in the infection being passed to you. While not considered a sexually transmitted infection, yeast infections can be transferred from person to person. Its not considered an STI due to the low percentage of yeast infections being transferred this way.
comparing clotrimazole to a cream made of thyme and garlic found that the thyme and garlic had reduced side effects with the same healing capabilities. Adding garlic to your diet has many health benefits.
Male Yeast Infection Treatment
The easiest way to avoid or treat yeast infections is by taking preventative measures. But sometimes, even if a man takes every precaution, he might still end up with excess fungus. Luckily, it is treatable. Most cases are mild and will respond to over-the-counter antifungal drugs, but severe cases might require stronger prescription medications.
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Additional Risks For Women
The use of oral contraceptives containing estrogen increases a womans risk of having yeast infection. Additionally, contraceptive devices, such as diaphragms, vaginal sponges, and intrauterine devices, heighten the probability as well. Yeast infection during pregnancy and breastfeeding are also more common.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Male Yeast Infection
Symptoms of a male yeast infection include pain, swelling and redness in your groin area. The redness is usually in patches. Other symptoms may include:
- Thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
- Foul-smelling discharge.
- Difficulty pulling back your foreskin.
After having a yeast infection, you may notice your skin peeling. The infection makes your skin more vulnerable. This can make it flaky or crusty and eventually it may start peeling.
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Symptoms Of Male Yeast Infections
Most might cringe at the thought of fungal overgrowth on their genitals, but the good news is that some men dont experience any symptoms of yeast infections. Others, however, might begin to notice early symptoms like moist skin around the penile head, redness, and itching. As the infection progresses, symptoms might include:
- More severe irritation or itchiness
- A white, discharge in the penile skin folds
- Discomfort during sex
- A burning sensation during urination
- Whiteish, shiny patches of skin
A candidal infection can also lead to balanitis, a condition characterized by inflammation in the penile head and foreskin.
Because candida also exists in the mouth, its possible to develop a different type of yeast infection called oral thrush, which might include symptoms like:
- White lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, palate, tonsils, or gums
- A bad taste in the mouth
- A cotton-like sensation in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
How To Treat A Penile Yeast Infection
This article was co-authored by Scott Tobis, MD. Dr. Scott Tobis is a board certified Urologist. With more than seven years of experience, he specializes in treating patients for urologic conditions such as urologic cancers, prostate enlargement, vasectomy, kidney stones, frequent/urgent urination, erectile dysfunction, incontinence, and blood in the urine. Dr. Tobis holds a BS in Cellular and Developmental Biology from The University of California, Santa Barbara, and an MD from Dartmouth Medical School. He completed his internship in General Surgery and residency in Urologic Surgery at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry and his fellowship in Urologic Oncology and Robotic Surgery at The City of Hope National Medical Center. Dr. Tobis is a diplomat of the American Board of Urology.There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 91% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 796,629 times.
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How Can I Prevent A Penile Yeast Infection
And since certain health conditions can increase your risk for a penile yeast infection, taking steps to manage your condition, such as keeping your blood sugar levels in check in the case of diabetes, is crucial for your overall health .
With that said, penile yeast infections can just happen sometimes. Thankfully, there are lots of effective medication options, some of which you can even get at your local pharmacy. Because complications can be even more of a pain to deal with, getting on top of treatment as quickly as possible is the best way to get your life back to baseline.
What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of A Yeast Infection
To get rid of a yeast infection quickly, see your doctoror if you get yeast infections regularly, you can ask your doctor to give you a prescription to keep on file at your pharmacy, and fill it when you need it. Taking a prescription oral antifungal medication like Diflucan is a quick way to get rid of a yeast infection. Its a one-dose treatment, but some people may need an additional dose or doses. A prescription or OTC vaginal antifungal cream can also help get rid of yeast infections fast. Some prescribers will recommend using both fluconazole and an antifungal cream.
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When To Contact A Doctor
Most home remedies bring relief within a few days. Some may take up to 1 week.
If your infection goes away with treatment but then returns, contact a doctor for advice. You may need a prescription-strength treatment to get rid of the infection for good.
Follow these tips to help prevent future yeast infections.
- Limit the amount of sugar and processed foods you consume. Yeast thrives on sugar.
- Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear.
- Dont spend extended periods of time in wet clothes or bathing suits. Yeast grows in warm, moist environments.
- Only use antibiotics when necessary.
Male Yeast Infection Treatment And Home Remedies
Your doctor may suggest:
- An over-the-counter antifungal cream or prescribe one to get rid of the infection
- A steroid cream such as hydrocortisone
- An oral medication called fluconazole
If you keep having yeast infections and arenât circumcised, your doctor may suggest circumcision, especially if your foreskin is very tight .
You can help clear up your infection by:
- Managing your diabetes if you have it
- Losing weight if you are obese
- Avoiding any soaps or other chemicals that cause irritation
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Best Overall Yeast Infection Remedy
Price: $$
Monistat contains the antifungal ingredient miconazole, which is the gold standard for treating yeast infections and relieving discomfort. Seven-day treatments actually deliver the same overall dose as 1- and 3-day treatments. Its just spread out in smaller amounts over the course of the week, which some docs feel may be more effective.
The one-day products seem to get a lot of incomplete cure, says Megan Zaander, MD, a gynecologist in Lake Oswego, Oregon.
This cream is proven to work four times faster than prescription pills, can be used at night, and is safe to use during pregnancy . And thanks to the included disposable applicators, its not messy.
Price: $$$
Some research from 2013 suggests that oral probiotics could play a role in fighting yeast infections and keeping them at bay. Good bacteria like lactobacillus are thought to help promote a healthier vaginal microbiome overall, which might make you more resistant to yeast infections.
Especially for my patients who deal with chronic vaginal infections, I recommend a daily probiotic, Zaander says.
Uqoras probiotic supplement contains bacterial strains that live in a healthy, happy vag, like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus, plus prebiotics to help the bugs survive their journey through your body.
Genital Thrush In Males
- Thrush is a yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called candida.
- Candida infections can occur in many different parts of your body, including your genitals.
- Treatments include creams and sometimes pills, depending how severe your symptoms are.
- You can prevent thrush by practicing good hygiene.
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