You may be able to reduce symptoms of a penis yeast infection and at home. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help. However, a health care professional should first diagnose your condition.
A yeast infection is a type of fungal infection caused by usually caused by Candida albicans or dermatophytes.
An infection typically won’t go away on it’s own and might worsen without treatment.
Topical antifungal creams can help treat yeast infections.
The medications, clotrimazole 1% and miconazole 1% are the
You typically apply OTC topical antifungals for
See a doctor for a severe yeast infection, as it may require oral antifungal medication to treat it.
Common types of yeast infection that occur in males are:
Candidiasis (thrush)
Symptoms of thrush can include:
- irritation, itching, or burning sensations under the foreskin
- flushed patches of skin under the foreskin or at the tip of the penis
- discharge under the foreskin that can look similar to cottage cheese
- an unpleasant smell
- a tight foreskin
- inflammation of the foreskin (known as posthitis)
- balanitis (inflammation of the head of the penis)
Jock itch (tinea cruris)
Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is also a type of fungal infection. However, it typically occurs
The symptoms are similar to those of a yeast infection, but they include a rash around the groin that may extend to the thighs, perineum, or buttocks.
Certain factors can increase the risk of yeast overgrowth, including:
Antibiotic use
Taking antibiotics may kill off some healthy bacteria that usually keep yeast in check. This means the yeast can grow out of control.
A weakened immune system
Chronic underlying diseases, such as diabetes and HIV, may weaken the body’s immune response to an overgrowth of yeast and increase your risk of yeast infections.
STIs
If you have symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), speak with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Some STIs can
Uncircumcised
Yeast infections are more common in uncircumcised males because the foreskin provides a place for the yeast to grow.
Weight
People with excess weight may have more skin folds, which provide optimal conditions for fungal infections to develop.
Sweating
Sweating can offer suitable conditions for yeasts and other microbes to grow. People who exercise or sweat a lot should bathe more frequently, making sure to dry the genital area thoroughly after.
Tight clothes
Tight fabrics for trousers and underwear can trap moisture against skin and create a prime environment for fungus to grow.
Wash your penis daily with warm water as part of your everyday bathing habits. If you have a foreskin, gently pull it back and wash underneath it.
Wear looser fitting cotton underwear that’s breathable and change it daily and more often if you exercise or sweat a lot.
Practicing safe sex can also help you avoid penis infections.
If you have any type of penis infection avoid sexual activity until the infection has cleared.
Consult a doctor if you have any signs of a penis infection or if you have a diagnosed yeast infection but treatments are not working.
If you have a weakened immune system, speak to a doctor as soon as symptoms of an infection occur, as there’s an
Proper health care advice can identify whether your symptoms are indeed caused by a yeast infection or if it could be something else.
Yeast infections can be painful and uncomfortable. They occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast which leads to an infection.
Speak with a healthcare professional to diagnose any type of infection on your penis. They may suggest OTC or prescription creams. Some cases require oral antibiotics.
If you have underlying conditions that weaken your immune system, speak with a doctor as soon as signs of an infection appear.
If your infection does not seem to be clearing, speak once again with a doctor for advice.