Yeast is a common type of fungus that is a part of the normal environment of the mouth, skin and intestinal tract. A yeast infection sets in when the body is unable to check its growth. Typically, yeast infections are caused by a species Candida Albicans, and when it infects the male genitalia, it is referred to as penile yeast infection.
Uncircumcised men are more likely to catch this infection than circumcised males. This is because in circumcised males, the head of penis (also called glans) is relatively dry and cool because it remains exposed to air, as opposed to the glans penis in uncircumcised males. And yeast needs warmth and moisture to grow. Although, the incidence of male genital yeast infection is way below that in females; the risk factor remain pretty much the same regardless of gender.
Causes
It has been found that a weak immune system is one of the leading causes of penile yeast infections. Other causes include metabolic disorders like diabetes, treatment with steroids or antibiotics. Although, Penile Yeast Infection is not classed under Sexually Transmitted Diseases – these include the more serious infections – they are however, contagious and may transmit through sexual intercourse with an infected person. So much so, unprotected sex with an infected partner is a high risk factor in triggering penile yeast infection.
Symptoms Of Penile Yeast Infection
One of the most common symptoms of yeast infection of the male genitals includes itching, irritation, and soreness on the foreskin of the penis. The penis head may turn reddish and develop small blisters.
A whitish discharge may be seen in most cases, particularly if left untreated and a burning sensation may be experienced during sexual intercourse or while urinating. Occasionally, the yeast infection can get into the urethra and cause pretty much the same problems as in women with a vaginal yeast infection. This can lead to irritation on the inside and can get extremely uncomfortable. In rare cases, the yeast may enter the prostate gland.
Treatment Options
Preventive Measures
Mild cases of penile yeast infection, characterized by itching or mild irritation can easily be treated with over-the-counter topical anti-fungal creams or medicines prescribed by the doctor. Maintaining good hygiene in sex life is an effective way to prevent penile yeast infection. Taking a bath after intercourse, using a condom, or abstaining from sexual intercourse until your partner is completely cured of the yeast infection can reduce the risk of penile infection. Furthermore, treating the infection at the onset is extremely important, as ignoring it for long may lead to chronic yeast infection, which is difficult to treat.
Treatment
Mild to moderate penile yeast infections in most cases responds well to oral antimycotic drugs like Diflucan or Monistat. Topical creams may also provide relief, although in some cases the infection may return after a while. Many use traditional remedies with varying degrees of success, to treat penile yeast infections. Gentian violet, a non-prescription drug, is one such time-tested one. Organic coconut oil, probiotics for yeast, organic oregano oil, and white vinegar are some of the widely used home remedies, not to forget baby powder, which works by keeping the area dry.
Male Yeast Infection Home Remedy Methods – Safe And Easy
Yeast infection is not just a female problem, males also suffer from it, and thus, they often look out for male yeast infection home remedy. While the fungal growth can take place at any part of the body, the most common areas of occurrence are skin, mouth, and genital area. There is usually no discharge associated with male yeast infection as it is with women, but men may find swelling, redness and itching of the genitals.
Common Home Remedy Agents
If you go to a doctor, you will be given prescription medicines and some lotions to apply. In extreme cases, you must seek medical help, but if the infection is mild or you think it has just started, you may try some home remedies. Let’s have a look at male yeast infection home remedy methods that are safe and natural:
• Tea tree oil: It is a known anti-fungal agent. You can pour a few drops of undiluted tea tree oil on a clean cloth or cotton and apply it on the affected area.
• Yogurt: Eat plenty of yogurts as it is a good remedy for fungus. It is alsogood for your overall health. You may apply it directly to the affected areas of yeast infection.
• Honey: You can use honey directly on the affected portions of the body. Apply it liberally, and let it be there for at least 20 minutes, then wash off with warm water. It is a sticky, somewhat uncomfortable way of treatment, but it is known to work wonders.
• Vinegar: You can use vinegar in your bath water. It is known to have anti-fungal properties also, anti-bacterial properties. You can mix one cup of vinegar in your bathtub and soak in it for 15 minutes; apple cider vinegar gives the best results. Do not forget to dry the genital area as well as all affected areas with the help of tissues.
• Garlic: Take a few garlic pods and make a paste, then apply it on the affected area. It will burn a little, but is found to be very effective. Leave the paste at least for 15 minutes, then wash gently with warm water and dry thoroughly.
Along with the above mentioned male yeast infection home remedy methods, a variety of herbs can also be used for treatment. Goldenseal, black walnut and chamomile are generally used, in combination or alone, as they have anti-fungal properties. You can make a paste with a little water.
These home remedies are safe to use and have no side effects; however, if you find that your itching or burning sensation is increasing with these remedies, do not use it.
Precautions To Avoid Yeast Infection
There are some precautions that you can take to avoid the yeast infection in the first place:
• Avoid wearing tight undergarments.
• Wear underwear made of breathable fabrics, like cotton. Do not use synthetic material.
• Avoid wearing very tight fitting jeans daily.
• Always wear totally dry cloths, if you have got wet, change immediately.
• Do not use perfumes and deodorants in sensitive areas like your genitals.
Male yeast infection home remedy methods are safe and have proven results. You must first test-try it on a small patch of skin to see how it reacts. If it goes well, no itching or redness appears even after hours of applying, you can use it safely.