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Male candidiasis corresponds to the overgrowth of fungi of the genus Candida sp. on the penis, leading to signs and symptoms indicative of infection, such as local pain and redness, slight swelling and itching. THE Candida sp. it is a fungus naturally present in the genital region and on the skin of men and women, however as a consequence of some alteration in the immune system, mainly, it can have its growth favored, resulting in candidiasis.
Genital candidiasis is more common in women, however it can also happen in men especially when intimate hygiene is not performed properly. In addition to appearing in the penis, candidiasis in men can also appear in other parts of the body, such as between the toes, groin and inside the mouth.
Candidiasis is an infection that can be easily treated as long as the treatment recommended by the doctor is followed, which usually involves the use of ointments and creams that promote the elimination of excess fungi, in addition to oral antifungals in some cases. However, treatment does not guarantee immunity and, therefore, it is important that men maintain hygiene habits to prevent candidiasis from happening again.
Photo of candidiasis in man
Signs and symptoms of male candidiasis
The signs and symptoms of male genital candidiasis appear mainly on the penis, however it can also appear in the scrotum or reach the groin, for example. The main signs and symptoms of candidiasis in men are:
- Local pain and redness;
- Appearance of red and / or whitish plaques on the penis;
- Dryness of the skin;
- Presence of whitish secretion;
- Burning sensation when urinating;
- Local itching.
The diagnosis of male genital candidiasis is confirmed by the urologist based on observation of the signs and symptoms presented by the man. In addition, in recurrent and atypical cases, laboratory tests may be requested to confirm the presence and species of the fungus.
In the case of male candidiasis that does not affect the genital region, the signs and symptoms presented must be evaluated by the dermatologist, who will identify the most suitable treatment. Take our online test to find out what the chances are of having candidiasis.
Main causes and how to prevent
Male candidiasis is mainly related to changes in the immune system that end up favoring the overgrowth of species of Candida in the genital region, in the mouth or body, for example. Thus, situations such as flu, stress, chronic diseases, such as decompensated or untreated diabetes, or autoimmune diabetes, chemotherapy or treatment with immunosuppressants or corticosteroids can favor the proliferation of Candida sp.
In addition, in the case of male genital candidiasis, the lack of hygiene in the genital region and the local humidity can also favor fungal proliferation. Thus, to prevent infection, it is important to perform intimate hygiene daily and avoid wearing warm, tight or wet clothes, since they also favor fungal growth.
Strengthening the immune system is also a way to prevent infection by the species of Candida sp. and, therefore, it is important to have a healthy and balanced diet and to practice physical activity daily.
How to treat candidiasis
Candidiasis is curable and, in most cases, treatment can be done at home with the use of antifungal ointments, such as Miconazole, Imidazole, Clotrimazole or Fluconazole and, in the most severe cases, the use of Antifungals orally may be recommended. and Hydrocortisone. It is important that the treatment of male candidiasis be done according to the medical recommendation, even if there are no more apparent symptoms. Understand how the treatment for male candidiasis is done.
Another strategy that helps cure candidiasis faster is to invest in foods such as parsley and lemon that can be used to season the salad or squeezed in a little water, without sweetening. See other homemade recipes to treat candidiasis.
Ginger and pennyroyal tea are other great options to complete medical treatment. See more tips on what to eat in this video by nutritionist Tatiana Zanin: