Yeast infection is caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans, a fungus that belongs to the yeast family. Penile yeast infection is a less common form of Candidiasis than vaginal yeast infection, which is rampant among women. Most men are normally unaware that red and scale-like rashes on the penis head are indicative of Candida beneath the foreskin of the penis, necessitating treatment.
Penile
yeast infection
is caused primarily due to the following causes:
1)
A weak immune system due to HIV, hypothyroidism, chronic
stress etc.
2)
Sexual intercourse with a woman having vaginal yeast
infection.
3)
Indiscriminate use of antibiotics, which kill the
friendly bacteria in the groin
area.
4)
Diabetes mellitus, which elevates sugar levels in the
urine, which in turn provide a beneficial environment
for yeast.
5)
Nonoxynol-9, a vital ingredient for various detergents,
cosmetics, lubricants in condoms and in contraceptives
for its spermicidal properties. It is believed to cause
infection by damaging the physical barriers of the
rectum and vagina.
From
the above causes, sexual transmission is believed to be
the most common. Hence if yeast infection is confirmed
in one partner, it is imperative that treatment be
sought for both the partners. The foreskin of the penis
holds most of the moisture, thus affording an excellent
environment for yeast to multiply. Therefore,
circumcised men are at a lower risk of getting penile
yeast infections than those who are not. Young boys are
also at a risk of penile yeast infections due to poor
personal hygiene. Yeast infection occurs when new fungus
is introduced internally or externally.
The
symptoms of penile yeast infection dangerously resemble
those of genital herpes. It is better to go to a
physician and obtain a confirmed diagnosis. The most
common symptoms of a penile yeast infection
are:
1)
Irritation, soreness, and severe itching of the head of
the penis.
2)
White, clumpy discharge.
3)
Red, blister-like rash on the head of the
penis.
Penile
yeast infection
can be treated with ketoconazole and fluconazole.
Healthy living and proper genital hygiene will always be
the best prevention for penile yeast infection.
Other
general Candida cures like avoiding sugar and
restricting intake of simple carbohydrates go a long way
in complementing the treatment and may also prevent
recurrences. But since the yeast, Candida albicans is
versatile in its presentation the penile yeast infection
may just be a manifestation of a deeper illness. It is
safer therefore to holistically treat any yeast
infection in the body. The holistic practitioner will
take into account all aspects of the body to achieve a
proper balance so health improves. Taking antifungals
will merely suppress symptoms temporarily causing more
dangerous flare-ups in the future.
