Thrush Men

This condition is the result of an infection spread by candida albicans, a fungal organism. The condition is also termed as candida or candidosis. The rapid multiplication of this species results in this disease condition.

This organism is normally present in the human body especially in the warm and moist regions. Mouth and the genitals are the common areas in which these organisms dwell. Thrush does not belong to the sexually transmitted infections and is even seen in sexually inactive males. But there is also a possibility that the infection may get spread through sexual intercourse.

Symptoms: The significant symptom is balanitis. This is the inflammatory condition involving the penis and may have symptoms like reddening and itching of glanspenis, tiny red spots are seen on glanspenis, abnormal penile discharge, experiences pain while voiding, difficultly in retracting the foreskin and collection of smegma under foreskin.

Swelling and cracking of foreskin may be seen in few people.

Causes

Candida albicans

This is the causative organism that is normally present in the body and manifests the symptoms only if it multiplies excessively.

There are bacteria that are present in the body which regulates the growth of candida. Anything destroying those bacteria can result in this condition as in antibiotic therapy. A weak immune system also may precipitate this condition.

Personal hygiene

Maintenance of adequate personal hygiene is very important to prevent this condition. A compromised immune power can also accelerate the condition.

HIV, diabetes etc

All these condition leaves a person in a compromised condition of immune status.

Treatment

Anti-fungal creams

Fluconazole is the drug of choice and may be available in powder or cream.

Steroid cream

These are also found to be effective but are contraindicated if the glanspenis is affected.

Good hygiene

Maintenance of hygiene in an optimum level is very much important. Especially the genitals should be cleaned and properly dried.

Avoid having sex

It is advisable to retrieve oneself from sexual deeds as it can lead to spread of the condition to the partner or aggravate the condition.

Complications

Blood poisoning

Once infection is going on and the person is in a compromised immune status, this condition may arise. Diabetes and leukaemia increases the risk in this respect.

Intravenous antibiotic therapy also makes a person vulnerable to this. This may be manifested as elevated body temperature, shivering, vomiting and headache.

This need to be corrected with prompt medical intervention or else the infection may spread via bloodstream to different body parts and cause serious damage.

Prevention

Good personal hygiene

Ensuring maintenance of adequate personal hygiene prevents the occurrence of thrush in men. Taking bath daily and thorough cleaning of the genitals are very much important. Use of excessive cosmetics or sprays actually destroys the cells and makes them vulnerable for this infection.

Healthy lifestyle

This includes consuming a balanced diet, following regular exercises avoiding alcoholism and smoking etc.