Male Yeast Infections
Men can get yeast infections. And if that sounds crazy to you, get a load of this; they can get them without the 'help' of a woman who already has one. Certainly that's not a common occurrence, but if you're the one-in-a-million guy who experiences it, that won't be much of a comfort to you. Therefore, you really ought to take a moment to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of male yeast infections, so you'll know when it's time to seek treatment -- and do seek treatment from a professional before you start self-diagnosing; you don't want to medicate for the wrong thing when it comes to your manly bits.
How Do Men Get Yeast Infections?
There are two ways a man gets a yeast infection; on his own, or from a woman who already has an infection. The first scenario simply involves an overgrowth of yeast bacteria, typically helped along by a deficient immune system, or conditions like diabetes. The other is what you'd guess -- direct sexual contact with a woman who has a yeast infection.
How Common Are They?
They're pretty common in women, but far, far less common in men. Which is why some of you didn't know men could get them. Like I just said, when they do show up, it tends to be in those with compromised immune systems, which includes men who've been on a long course of antibiotics, as this can wipe out the good bacteria meant to prevent yeast from getting out of hand.
What Are The Symptoms of a Male Yeast Infection?
One of the more common symptoms is itching and irritation in the groin area. There may also be a burning sensation and, possibly, a rash. It doesn't have to be limited to one specific place, as yeast is quite obnoxious in that it can get around a bit. Discharge isn't unheard of, but it's not likely.
How Do You Treat a Male Yeast Infection?
You go to the doctor, for a start. Do not pop into your local pharmacy and pick up a box of Monistat -- women are very familiar with the symptoms of female yeast infections, and even many of them misdiagnose themselves and treat for an infection that ain't there. Yeast infection symptoms can be identical to the symptoms of other infections, bacterial STDs in particular, and you don't want to treat yourself for the wrong thing. Let your doctor diagnose you, and if you do have a yeast infection he'll prescribe a pill like Diflucan or give you a cream.
