Treatment of male candidiasis infection?
Hello, Doctor Xu.
I would like to inquire about the treatment options for my boyfriend (31 years old) who is suffering from a Candida infection.
He has sought help from various clinics approximately five to six times since the infection began, which has persisted for a year and a half without any improvement.
This situation has made him reluctant to seek further medical attention.
Currently, he is experiencing redness in the genital area and pain during erections.
He has previously used topical treatments such as Nystatin Cream and other antifungal creams, but their effectiveness has been limited; while some treatments worked, the infection recurred when they were not used.
He is also concerned about potential side effects from the creams that could thin the skin in the genital area.
At present, he is trying to manage his condition through dietary changes, focusing on consuming more meat and vegetables while avoiding sugar and starches.
This approach has led to slight improvements, but it has also resulted in significant weight loss, which has contributed to his feelings of frustration.
His condition remains unchanged, and I would like to ask what further steps can be taken to assist him.
I am worried that the prolonged duration of the infection may lead to other complications.
Note: 1.
He has been soaking and washing his underwear in disinfectant.
2.
There is no sexual activity.
Thank you, Doctor!
S., 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/17
Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Most treatments will show improvement within a few days; however, some individuals may experience recurrence and should maintain cleanliness and dryness, as well as overall body resistance.
If there is a long-term chronic inflammation of the foreskin, it is important to rule out underlying medical conditions such as diabetes.
Follow-up treatment in an outpatient setting is recommended.
Reply Date: 2017/02/17
More Info
Male candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is caused by an overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. This condition can lead to symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and pain during sexual activity or urination. Given your boyfriend's persistent symptoms and the ineffectiveness of previous treatments, it is crucial to explore a comprehensive approach to manage and treat this condition effectively.
Treatment Options
1. Antifungal Medications:
- Topical Treatments: While he has used Nystatin and other creams, it may be beneficial to try different antifungal creams such as clotrimazole or miconazole. These are often more effective for localized infections.
- Oral Antifungals: If topical treatments are ineffective, oral antifungal medications like fluconazole may be prescribed. This can help in cases where the infection is more systemic or resistant to topical treatments.
2. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:
- While dietary adjustments can help manage symptoms, it is essential to ensure that he maintains a balanced diet. A diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can reduce the growth of Candida, but he should not eliminate entire food groups without professional guidance.
- Incorporating probiotics, either through supplements or fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut), can help restore the natural flora of the body and combat yeast overgrowth.
3. Hygiene Practices:
- Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. He should ensure that the genital area is kept clean and dry, as moisture can promote yeast growth. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can also help.
- It’s good that he is disinfecting his underwear, but he should also consider washing them in hot water to ensure that any yeast is eliminated.
4. Avoid Irritants:
- He should avoid scented soaps, lotions, or other products that may irritate the genital area. These can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast.
5. Consultation with a Specialist:
- Given the chronic nature of his symptoms, it may be beneficial for him to see a urologist or a dermatologist specializing in genital skin conditions. They can provide a more thorough examination and possibly conduct tests to rule out other underlying conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections or skin disorders that may mimic candidiasis.
6. Consider Underlying Conditions:
- Chronic candidiasis can sometimes be linked to underlying health issues, such as diabetes or immune system disorders. If he has not already been evaluated for these conditions, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
It is important for your boyfriend to have regular follow-ups with his healthcare provider to monitor his condition and adjust treatment as necessary. If he experiences any new symptoms or if his condition worsens, he should seek medical attention promptly.
Conclusion
In summary, male candidiasis can be effectively treated with a combination of antifungal medications, lifestyle modifications, and proper hygiene practices. Given the chronic nature of your boyfriend's symptoms, a comprehensive approach that includes consultation with specialists may be necessary to achieve a resolution. Encourage him to remain proactive about his health and to seek further medical advice if his condition does not improve.
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