Penile Yeast Infection

A penile yeast infection that attacks the skin of the penis is caused by the fungus Candida. Although, yeast infection (candidiasis) frequently occurs in women, men too can contract genital yeast infection unknowingly. Practicing anal or sex with a woman who is already affected with vaginal yeast infection is one of the most common causes of penile yeast infection. Even prolonged use of antibiotics or using contraceptives (condoms) that are lubricated with nonoxynol-9 can cause genital yeast infection in men.

Men suffering from diabetes are also susceptible to penile candidiasis. Diabetics have abnormally high blood sugar levels, which is conducive for proliferation of candida. Although, antibiotics help to get rid of the infection, they also destroy the good bacteria. As presence of good bacteria is crucial to keep candida population under control, destruction of beneficial bacteria triggers the onset of yeast infection. Those suffering from immune system disorders such as HIV/AIDS or taking medicines that suppress the immune system may also contract penile candidiasis.

Symptoms

It is very rare that a man affected with genital yeast infection does not experience any symptoms. This is because symptoms are noticed within a day or two, after the fungus invades the penis. More importantly, the infection is marked by symptoms that depict other sexually transmitted diseases. The following symptoms are observed:

Itching: Itching of whole penis, accompanied by pain during urination is the most common symptom of this form of infection. Apart from itching, the patient experiences terrible pain in the penis. Although the entire penis is painful, the head of the penis, specifically causes more pain.

Skin Rash: A yeast related rash may be seen on the infected area. The red, itchy rash can lead to severe irritation of the skin. To be precise, due to yeast infection, the penis might appear partially covered with small blisters.

Cracked Dry Skin: Some areas on the penis appear rough and dry, that show presence of blisters and red patches.

Whitish Discharge: A whitish, clumpy, thick discharge from the tip is noticed in people with penile yeast infection.

Unpleasant Sensation: Burning or tingling sensation is felt that is restricted at the tip of penis. This is quite uncomfortable and may lead to sleep disturbances.

Treatment

In most cases, with proper treatment, the infection goes away within 2-3 weeks. Many prefer home remedies to treat this yeast infection. However, medications are also useful to get rid of the fungus. Some of the most common yeast infection treatment options are given below:

Medicines: Prescription medicines are commonly used to treat male genital yeast infection. The doctor may ask the patient to take Nizoral or Diflucan. These drugs are quite effective to destroy the fungus that is causing penile infection.

Tea Tree Oil: People diagnosed with penile yeast infection can also use tea tree oil. This is a proven natural remedy to combat tea tree oil. Take 1 tablespoon of olive oil and then add 3 drops of tea tree oil into it. Apply this solution in small amounts to the penis. Keep in mind, that without diluting tea tree oil, direct application of this essential oil can harm the skin.

Garlic: Garlic acts as a powerful antifungal agent, which can help to cure this infection. In order to use this form of treatment, buy 5-6 garlic capsules and break them by applying pressure. Moderate pressure is sufficient to break open these capsules. Keep the garlic powder, obtained from capsules in a bowl. Put 2 cups of lukewarm water into the bowl and mix it well with the garlic. Now, completely immerse the penis into the solution for approximately 15-20 minutes. Once, it is over, make sure to dry the penis with a clean cloth. This treatment method should be done twice in a day (morning and before going to bed).

Antifungal Creams: Monistat is an over the counter antifungal remedy that is available in the form of cream. Although, monistat, has been developed for vaginal infections, men can also use it to cure their genital infection. Directly apply the cream on the affected area and one will notice amazing results within a few days. For monistat to be more effective, take the cream in small amounts and mix it with few drops of white vinegar before applying it. Other antifungal creams that are known to provide relief from penile yeast infection symptoms are Lotrimin, Micatin, Vagisil and Lamisil.

Cinnamon Oil: Usage of cinnamon oil is yet another effective remedy to clear the infection. Application of cinnamon oil is an easy home remedy and powerful enough to destroy the fungus that has caused penile candidiasis. With a cotton ball, dab the cinnamon oil on the penis, twice or thrice everyday and you will soon observe your infection gone away.

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: Organic virgin coconut oil acts as a natural antifungal agent, so applying it externally and even taking it internally is found to be useful to eliminate the infection. The two key ingredients found in coconut oil are caprylic acid and lauric acid, both well-known for their unique antifungal activity. Hence, dabbing it on the penis as well as consuming a teaspoon of organic virgin coconut oil is every effective in destroying yeast overgrowth. Using hydrogenated or refined coconut oil is meaningless. This is because both hydrogenation and refining robs off the good properties of coconut oil. Hence, do not forget to purchase organic virgin coconut oil.

Diet: As aforementioned, increasing the population of good bacteria is very important to counteract yeast overgrowth. This can be achieved by having natural sources of beneficial bacteria such as yogurt. Taking a cup of unsweetened yogurt daily can definitely assist to overcome the infection. Having buttermilk (without any sugar) would also benefit to combat the infection effectively. People suffering from genital yeast infection need to avoid certain foods that aggravate this condition. Doctors often advice to stay away from foods high in sugar such as cakes, fruits, fruit juices, desserts and pastries. However, one can eat cottage cheese to reduce the symptoms. The foods that help to combat penile yeast infection effectively are:

• Blackberries
• Pumpkins
• Almonds
• Raw cabbage
• Radish Roots

Men diagnosed with penile candidiasis should also avoid wearing an underwear when going to sleep. This may sound a bit uncomfortable, but this keeps the infected body part dry, thus preventing the fungi from spreading. Keeping the affected area clean and following the appropriate treatment can surely assist to improve penile yeast symptoms within less time.