Candidiasis in men is caused by the same pathogen that affects women; this is Candida albicans fungus. However, in the genital area, this fungal infection causes various manifestations. Candidiasis in women , is usually associated with vulvovaginitis, and in men it leads to balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis).
The fungus Candida Albicans loves to live in moist and warm environments of the human body, such as the mouth (mucous membrane of the oropharynx), the gastrointestinal tract, the genitals (vagina and penis). Candida is a saprophytic fungus, that is, it feeds on decaying material, and belongs to the family of yeast fungi. Candida is generally harmless, and its spread is controlled by the «good bacteria», that make up the bacterial flora in the body.
An important role is played by immune system, which protects us from microorganisms present in the external environment, viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. When the balance of these two mechanisms is disturbed, the candida fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, which leads to the above pathological state, called candidiasis or thrush.
Causes of candidiasis
The main cause of candidiasis is a decrease in the number of «good bacteria» in the human body. This usually occurs after intensive antibiotic therapy. Poor personal hygiene and misuse of detergents. Poor quality soap and shower gel can irritate the penis and promote fungal reproduction, AIDS or immunosuppression. In both cases, the immune system is weak and its activity is ineffective. This weakness allows pathogens to multiply more easily and reduces the chances of recovery. Overweight people are more prone to candidiasis.The folds of skin formed by rolls of fat are an ideal medium for the propagation of candida fungus. After intercourse with a sick person, infection is quite possible.
Candidiasis in men. Symptoms
Candidiasis in men can occur at different levels: the surface of the skin, mucous membrane, penis. When candidiasis affects the penis, an inflammatory process known as balanitis occurs. When the fungus infects the skin, itchy rashes and red spots appear on certain parts of the body. If the fungus affects the oral cavity, then we are dealing with candidiasis of the oral mucosa. The classic signs of balanitis are:
- redness and swelling;
- irritation and itching;
- phimosis (or narrowing of the foreskin);
- pain and bleeding during urination;
- pain during intercourse.
On the skin, the candida fungus causes a rash characterized by classic zones that include anatomical areas where there are two different skin surfaces in contact with each other. For example, armpits, between the fingers, in rolls of fat and skin in the areas between the genitals and anus.
Why do certain anatomical regions stimulate candida reproduction?
As already mentioned, the fungus loves a moist and warm environment. In particular, in areas such as armpits and between two rollers of fat, ideal conditions are created for the life and reproduction of candida in temperature and humidity. A patient with candidiasis of the oral cavity may complain of difficulty swallowing and not perceiving taste.
Complications of candidiasis and treatment
People with a weakened immune system, people with diabetes and those taking immunosuppressants are at risk of invasive candidiasis. Invasive candidiasis occurs when a candida fungus spreads in the patient’s blood.
Candidiasis in men treatment
Antifungal drugs are used to treat candidiasis in men. With thrush of the oral cavity and skin, imidazole derivatives are used. For the treatment of balanitis, a more powerful tool, such as fluconazole, is needed.
Prevention of candidiasis in men
Do not use detergents that irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Wipe the body parts thoroughly after each shower or bath. Pay attention to your weight. If you suffer from certain diseases (diabetes, AIDS, immunosuppression, etc.), take maximum care of personal hygiene and avoid intimate relationships with people infected with candida. Use condoms, especially if the partner is infected.
If you have complaints or doubts about candidiasis, you can contact the urologists of the Bogoliuby Medical Center
for timely diagnosis and treatment.
