Yeast Infection in Men: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
While yeast infections are more common in women, they can occur in men, too. Yeast infections in men are caused by a fungus called candida and can happen in many different areas of the body, including the penis.
A yeast infection, which results in inflammation at the head of the penis, is also referred to as balanitis. Yeast infections in men are one condition that impacts men’s health that we can help evaluate and treat at any of our Urgent Care centers.
Symptoms of penile yeast infection
Symptoms of a penile yeast infection are fairly similar to symptoms that a woman may experience, except they typically occur at the head of the penis.
Some of the common symptoms of a yeast infection in men are:
- Burning during urination
- Cracked foreskin
- Itchiness
- Pain during sex
- Redness
- Soreness
- Small red spots
- White discharge under the foreskin
- White, shiny patches
Many of these symptoms are common symptoms of STDs; therefore, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation and the correct treatment for yeast infection.
Causes of yeast infection
Yeast infections in men and women are caused by a fungus called candida. Most people have a small amount of candida on their bodies all the time, but infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of this fungus. It is more likely to occur in moist areas of the body.
Other factors that can predispose a man to develop a yeast infection include:
- Diabetes
- Impaired immune system, such as HIV
- Irritated or damaged skin
- Having other sexually transmitted diseases
- Not circumcised
- Not drying off thoroughly
- Overweight or obesity
- Poor hygiene
- Prolonged antibiotic use
- Sex with a partner who has a yeast infection
Diagnosis
Since the symptoms of a male yeast infection can overlap with other conditions, it is essential to have a physical exam for the correct diagnosis. The healthcare provider might be able to identify the infection by just looking at the penis or foreskin but may collect a sample from the area for further testing.
If you suspect you have a yeast infection, just walk in or save your spot online at your local GoHealth Urgent Care center for evaluation and treatment.
Treatment
Once the evaluation is complete, yeast infection treatment for men is relatively simple. Your provider may offer a few different options for how to treat a yeast infection in men. These can include the following:
Over-the-counter treatment
Over-the-counter treatment for yeast infection involves applying an antifungal cream to the affected area. These creams are found at most pharmacies. Creams used for the treatment of men’s yeast infections include:
- Miconazole
- Clotrimazole
- Nystatin
Ask your provider which treatment is best for you.
Topical antifungals
In some cases, treatment for a yeast infection may require a prescription-strength antifungal cream. While some of these might be the same type of medication as those available over the counter, the strength is different. Your healthcare provider can evaluate whether you need a more potent antifungal cream or if an over-the-counter option can work for your infection.
At times, an oral antifungal medication called fluconazole may also be prescribed.
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing symptoms and are wondering, “Can men get a yeast infection?” It’s probably time to see a healthcare provider. The signs of a penile yeast infection can be similar to many other more severe conditions; therefore, an evaluation by a trained healthcare provider is essential. Just walk in or save your spot online at any GoHealth Urgent Care center.
Can yeast infection go away on its own in men?
Depending on your overall health, a penile yeast infection can go away without treatment. But it can also worsen and spread to other areas around the penis. The treatment for a male yeast infection is generally simple. Therefore, starting as soon as possible is important to ensure the infection doesn’t spread.
Can you pass yeast infections to your partner?
Yes, you can pass a yeast infection to your partner through vaginal, oral or anal sex if the partner has a yeast infection. Yeast can grow in any moist area of the body, including the mouth, vagina, penis or anal regions. Speak to your provider about when to resume sexual activity if you have been diagnosed with a yeast infection.
Yeast infections are not STIs
While you can pass yeast infections via sex, they are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). That’s because the underlying cause of a yeast infection is not always sexual contact. It can occur for many different reasons.
If you believe you have a yeast infection or a sexually transmitted disease, visit any of our conveniently located Urgent Care centers for evaluation and treatment. Just walk in, save your spot online or schedule a virtual visit 365 days a year, 7 days a week.