Thrush in men: 100% about the causes, symptoms and signs, treatment

Many people think that Candida is a predominantly female disease, but this is not the case. Thrush in men, although less common, is found, especially in people with weakened immunity, and both at a young age and in the elderly, there is not much difference. The prognosis is most favorable with timely identification of the pathogen and early start of treatment, so it is important to know how candidiasis manifests itself and for what symptoms you should immediately consult a doctor.

How thrush affects potency in men is described in this article.

Do men have thrush: true for the stronger sex

The Candida fungus is classified as opportunistic because it is part of the healthy microflora of people of both sexes, but leads to candidiasis if active reproduction begins and the number of microorganisms increases, as well as when infected with more active strains.

Thrush is more often diagnosed in women due to a number of anatomical and physiological reasons (the structure of the genitals associated with the menstrual cycle, a decrease in local immunity), but it can also develop in men for a number of reasons.

Location

Despite the fact that the fungus "lives" in various parts of the human body, a pathological increase in its number usually occurs in certain areas. Candidiasis in men often develops on the penis, affecting the tissues of the head and foreskin, urethra.

But other localization is also possible:

• in the mouth;
• in the intestines;
• on the skin;
• on the nail plates.

In rare cases, a systemic disease develops, characterized by damage to internal organs.

Root reasons

Most of the men at risk of developing thrush are people with reduced immunity - local or systemic. The reason for the weakening of the body's defenses can be:

• another infection;
• hypothermia;
• emotional stress;
• serious injury, surgery;
• inflammation of the skin on the head of the penis or foreskin due to aggressive personal hygiene products, careless sex or masturbation, tight underwear;
• hypovitaminosis;
• too low body weight;
• HIV;
• chemotherapy;
• taking medications aimed at lowering immunity (for example, glucocorticoids).

The abnormal balance of natural microflora can also lead to the pathological growth of the fungus population, the main reasons for which are:

• frequent use of hand and intimate cleaning products with antiseptic and antibacterial effects;
• taking antibiotics (especially important for intestinal candidiasis).

Since thrush is transmitted, including through the household route, the disease often occurs due to non-observance of the rules of personal hygiene - the use of someone else's dishes, towels, and a toothbrush. Infection with urogenital candidiasis usually occurs through unprotected sexual intercourse, possibly both through traditional intercourse and through oral or anal intercourse.

In addition, the likelihood of a fungus affecting the skin increases with obesity - due to the presence of folds on the body with increased temperature and humidity. And also in persons with diabetes mellitus: Candida multiplies well with an increase in the level of glucose in the tissues, which happens with this pathology.

How thrush manifests itself in men: 8 symptoms and signs

The course of candidiasis is often blurred, many patients miss the onset of the development of pathology, mistaking the first manifestations for ordinary irritation. Symptoms of thrush in men with genital lesions may be as follows:

• discomfort in the head of the penis during intercourse, urination, in some patients - and at rest;
• irritation and redness of the foreskin, the presence of whitish, cheesy discharge under it, similar to smegma;
• bad smell;
• swelling of the glans penis, up to the impossibility of exposing it;
• itching in the genitals, which may extend to the entire groin;
• red dots, in chronic course - ulcers on the head;
• enlarged inguinal lymph nodes;
• A whitish discharge from the urethra, resembling semen.

In a chronic course, the symptoms may not appear constantly, but only after sex, hypothermia, diet disorders, alcohol abuse.

Symptoms of thrush in other areas are not specific to men. So, cutaneous candidiasis is more often localized in the perineum, inguinal folds, armpits, between the toes - where there are skin folds. The main symptom is a rash, itching, if left untreated, a curdled plaque with a sour odor appears.

When nails become infected, the skin around them first turns red and swells, after which the nail plate changes color and dulls, and begins to crumble. Thrush in the mouth in adult men is rare, manifests itself as a white bloom with a characteristic odor on the tongue and mucous membranes.

Fungal infection of the intestine has the same symptoms as any other dysbiosis, the only distinguishing feature is the presence of white flakes in the stool.

It is important to take into account that despite the relative prevalence and the presence on the Internet of photos showing what a thrush looks like, it is rather difficult to identify this pathology at home. Since in men the symptoms are often blurred, and some infections can manifest themselves in a similar way, an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor (urologist) after examination and testing.

What does thrush on the penis look like in men: photo under a microscope

Photos of thrush in men on the penis under a microscope are quite frightening. Visually, these are scanty fungi, in an increased volume, the waste product of which is recognized even without specific knowledge.

In the photo above, there are micro and macro shots that show the presence of a large number of Candida fungi on the male genital organ. Their active reproduction causes real problems with male health.

Analyzes

If you suspect a yeast infection, self-treatment is unacceptable, because before selecting a medication, it is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and it is desirable to identify the medication to which the fungus is most sensitive.

First of all, the doctor asks the patient about the symptoms, including those not directly related to candidiasis - since the active reproduction of the pathogen does not begin in a healthy body, for effective therapy it is necessary to identify the root cause of the decrease in immunity. Next, the specialist conducts an examination and prescribes tests, among which may be:

The material taken is used in a number of studies:

• microscopy;
• sowing;
• PCR;
• test for the sensitivity of the pathogen to antifungal drugs;
• ELISA.

The purpose of the survey is not only to identify the fungus, but also to determine its quantity, since Candida is part of the normal microflora.

Often, in severe forms of candidiasis, tests for HIV and diabetes are prescribed.

For the diagnostic results to be accurate, a man must follow certain recommendations:

• two days before the tests, stop taking antifungal and antibacterial medications (unless the study is designed to check the effectiveness of treatment);
• abstain from sex for at least 24 hours, including masturbation;
• on the day of the visit to the doctor, do not wash the affected areas (in case of oral thrush, do not brush your teeth);
• do not use antiseptics on the eve of the examination;
• blood must be donated on an empty stomach (no later than 3 hours after waking up);
• feces and urine are given very first, in the morning, in a special sterile flask (of course, separately).

It is important to understand that testing for candidiasis is necessary for a man not only when symptoms appear, but also in case of pathology detection in a sexual partner.

Treatment

Thrush diagnosed in time in men who do not have serious health and immunity problems, often resolves with the appointment of one capsule / tablet or local antifungal ointments / creams.

In the case of the transition of the disease into a chronic form, an integrated approach is required, including the intake of systemic and local medications, adherence to diet and personal hygiene rules. In addition, it should be borne in mind: in order to completely cure a fungal infection, it is necessary to identify and control the root cause of the decrease in immunity.

10 drugs for thrush in men: inexpensive and effective

The main requirement for a medicine for candidiasis is the presence of an antifungal component that effectively suppresses the causative agent of the disease. An effective product does not have to be expensive, and drugs with high cost often have analogues at an affordable price.

It should be borne in mind that the list below is for informational purposes only, and a doctor (for men - a urologist) should prescribe a specific medication after examination and confirmation of the diagnosis.

Executor

The effect of the drug is due to the content of terbinafine hydrochloride, two dosage forms are available.

If you have liver or kidney problems, tablets should be taken with caution.

Pimafucin

The active ingredient is natamycin. In the treatment of thrush in men, pills and cream are used.

The duration of the course depends on the severity of the condition, it is recommended to apply it internally and externally for at least 3 days after the disappearance of the last symptoms.

Clotrimazole

Inexpensive drug with the same active substance. In men, only forms for external use are used: solution, cream, ointment, gel. The most convenient and effective first option according to reviews.

When processing the skin, the frequency of application of Clotrimazole reaches 3 times a day, for a course of 2-4 weeks. The mucous membranes of the mouth are lubricated no more than twice a day, the maximum duration of treatment is 7 days.

Nystatin

A highly targeted drug that is effective against Candida fungi. The name is identical to the active component.

Used for oral, external and rectal administration:

The duration of therapy is from 10 days to two weeks. Nystatin is contraindicated in patients with ulcerative lesions of the mucous membrane of the duodenum or stomach, liver pathologies, pancreatitis. Available by prescription.

Triderm

Not the cheapest, but effective drug. Combines three active substances:

• betamethasone dipropionate - relieves itching, swelling, inflammation;
• clotrimazole - destroys fungi;
• gentamicin - fights bacteria.

Used for external use only, comes in two forms:

It is applied in a thin layer in the morning and before bedtime, the course reaches 4 weeks. The drug is contraindicated in open wounds, as well as a number of skin lesions: herpes, tuberculosis, chickenpox, syphilis.

Fluconazole

An inexpensive medicine that is effective against thrush, it has a convenient dosage regimen.

Under this name, pharmacies sell two dosage forms:

The exact dosage and course are prescribed individually. In acute genital candidiasis, a single dose of 150 mg is sufficient, in case of intestinal damage, it is required to drink Fluconazole daily (at a reduced dosage), and in chronic thrush - 150 mg once a week. For especially dangerous, including invasive candidiasis, Fluconazole is administered by drip.

Candide

The active ingredient is clotrimazole, the drug is intended for external use.

There are two forms on sale that are suitable for the treatment of candidiasis in men:

Treatment should be continued for at least 3-5 days after the symptoms disappear.

Zalain

The active ingredient is sertaconazole nitrate. In the treatment of male candidiasis it is used only for external use

The product should be applied twice a day to the entire affected area, capturing a small amount of healthy skin. It is recommended to continue treatment for four weeks.

Symptom elimination usually occurs in the second week of use.

Since the drug does not penetrate deeply into the bloodstream, no systemic adverse reactions are observed.

Ecodax

Econazole nitrate provides antifungal effect

The agent is applied to the affected areas of tissues (except for mucous membranes) in a small amount, twice a day, after which it is rubbed in with gentle massage movements until absorbed. Improvement of the condition, as a rule, occurs within 3-5 days, but the treatment must be continued for up to two weeks.

Not recommended for use on damaged skin or use under the age of 18. It is also undesirable to allow the cream to get on the mucous membranes.

Itraconazole

The drug with the active substance of the same name, available in capsules of 100 mg

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the location of the fungus. So, with damage to the genitals in men, 200 mg per day is prescribed in one or two doses, after meals. The course is three days. In severe cases, the dose may be doubled.

Oral candidiasis is treated according to a different scheme - Itraconazole is taken at 100 mg daily for 15 days.

The drug is contraindicated for kidney damage, liver cirrhosis, heart disease. Incompatible with a number of drugs, including:

• Midazolam;
• Sertindole;
• Quinidine;
• Triazolam;
• Terfenadine;
• Cisaprid;
• Astemizole;
• Pimozide;
• Dofetilide;
• Mizolastine;
• Lovastatin;
• Simvastatin;
• ergot alkaloids.

Enhances the action of most anticoagulants (drugs that prevent blood clots).

Does it make sense to use folk remedies and what can be used

Synthetic medicines often cause side effects, in addition, it is not always possible to see a urologist at the first symptoms of the disease.

Therefore, many men are interested in whether traditional medicine is effective and what remedies can be used at home.

It is possible and necessary to use medicinal plants, but we must not forget that they must be agreed with the attending physician and they should not replace prescribed medications.

In most cases, folk remedies are aimed at relieving unpleasant symptoms and disinfecting the affected skin area.The following recipes are popular:

In addition to local effects, the treatment of thrush in men should include means aimed at strengthening the immune system:

• a stream of beaver;
• Eleutherococcus;
• echinacea;
• ginseng;
• propolis.

It is also recommended to include in the daily diet a small amount of garlic, onions, ginger.

Diet for candidiasis in men: a sample menu for every day

The course of treatment for thrush, especially chronic, should be based not only on taking medications, but also on proper nutrition.

In order not to create a favorable environment for the fungus, it is recommended to abandon the following products during treatment:

• sweet drinks;
• alcohol;
• confectionery, sugar;
• baked goods;
• dried fruits;
• mushrooms;
• high carbohydrate fruits, vegetables and berries;
• dairy products;
• blue cheese;
• fast food;
• yeast bread.

It is especially important to remove fast carbohydrates from the diet, since Candida feeds on them.

Recommended products include:

• vegetables low in sugars and starch;
• greenery;
• fermented milk drinks without fillers and additives;
• lean meat;
• seafood, including fish;
• eggs;
• gluten-free cereals;
• unsweetened fruits and berries rich in vitamin C - lemons, currants, rose hips;
• Seasonings such as cinnamon, bay leaves, cloves, black and red peppers, garlic, ginger, oregano.

At the same time, fasting or reducing the calorie content of the diet is not recommended, since it can further weaken the body. Sample menu:

As a snack, you can drink yogurt without additives, kefir or fermented baked milk, if the afternoon snack should be more dense, make sandwiches from whole grain bread and boiled meat or eggs.

It is recommended to replace sweet drinks, coffee and tea with rosehip or currant broth, water with lemon. In addition, you can make a decoction based on willow tea, chamomile, rosemary, linden flowers or nettle leaves.

Tips

In order to quickly and effectively cure thrush, it is recommended not only to take medications prescribed by your doctor and follow a diet, but also to adhere to certain recommendations:

• keep the affected area clean - regularly cleanse the skin with special means (water and soap, chlorhexidine, alcohol-free antiseptics), change linen daily;
• thoroughly dry the skin after water procedures;
• avoid wearing clothing that does not dissipate heat and moisture;
• refrain from sexual intercourse during treatment to avoid re-infection or transmission of the fungus to a partner;
• give up alcohol, if possible, reduce or eliminate the intake of nicotine in the body;
• avoid hypothermia and overheating, emotional stress;
• take measures to strengthen the immune system.

In addition, so that the treatment does not drag on for a long time, it is necessary to consult a specialist when the first alarming symptoms occur and follow all the recommendations given by the specialist. It is important to continue treatment until the end of the prescribed course, without interrupting it when the external manifestations of the disease disappear, otherwise candidiasis can not only become chronic, but also develop resistance to the medications used (it will be difficult to cure it completely after that, since the components of all antifungal agents are very similar in its structure).

How to quickly and effectively get rid of thrush for a man: a specific scheme

Despite its seeming harmlessness, candidiasis requires complex treatment. In order for the therapy to give the desired result, it is important to know not only how to treat thrush in men, but also how to do it.

The general scheme is as follows:

If a man has a permanent sexual partner, simultaneous treatment of both is necessary (if sex is unprotected), otherwise full recovery may not occur - each will infect the other and this can continue indefinitely.

In addition, when candidiasis is caused by a decrease in immunity due to another disease, the scheme is supplemented with measures to eliminate it (that is, treatment or achieve a stable remission), if possible.

Is it realistic to recover at home

In most cases (with the exception of severe damage to internal organs), thrush is treated on an outpatient basis - the doctor prescribes pills or ointments, gives recommendations on nutrition and hygiene, and the patient follows the instructions at home, visiting the hospital occasionally, to control the result.

If we are talking about self-selection of medicines, then the likelihood of a successful cure decreases, since taking just antifungal drugs is not enough - you need to choose one that is guaranteed to cope with a specific strain of a microorganism.

It is also important to rule out other diseases with similar symptoms.

What will happen if not treated: consequences and complications

Not wanting to see a doctor with a delicate problem, men often hope that the thrush will go away on its own. Could this health attitude have serious consequences?

The first thing a patient encounters who has not immediately treated thrush is the transition of the disease to a chronic form. Symptoms become less pronounced, do not appear constantly, but they make themselves felt with regular exacerbations.

With a weakened immune system or changes in microflora, the following complications are possible:

• secondary bacterial infection;
• the ascent of the pathogen along the genitourinary tract, leading to damage to the urethra, bladder, kidneys, prostate;
• phimosis;
• erectile dysfunction, infertility - as a result of infection of the genitals.

In the most severe cases, candidiasis can affect multiple organ systems, leading to sepsis and death if left untreated.

Prevention: 14 Important Rules to Remember

Although a common disease, thrush is not difficult to avoid.

It is enough to follow a few simple rules:

• to strengthen the immune system (at least not to undermine it);
• maintain hygiene - regularly take a shower and change linen, do not use other people's clothes, towels, toothbrush;
• avoid unprotected intercourse with an unverified partner;
• monitor blood sugar levels, especially if diabetes is suspected;
• maintain a healthy weight;
• limit the amount of simple carbohydrates in the diet;
• give up bad habits;
• wear loose underwear made from breathable fabrics;
• do not abuse antiseptic products for intimate hygiene;
• drink antibiotics only as prescribed by a doctor, combine with taking pro and prebiotics;
• if there were previously cases of fungal diseases, if it is necessary to take antibiotics, take a prophylactic course of antifungal drugs;
• undergo regular check-ups;
• include fermented milk products with live bacteria in the diet to maintain a healthy microflora;
• if a sexual partner has thrush, refrain from sex until the end of treatment and be sure to consult a urologist for diagnosis, even if there are no symptoms.

Compliance with the above recommendations is useful for the prevention of not only candidiasis, but also other health problems of men.