|  | Conditions Treatments | Diseases

Thrush Symptoms in Males

Thrush is fungus infection that is more common in women, but men can get it. Men can get penile or mouth thrush. Both infections can be spread to other people. The symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable, but they are treatable.

  1. Candidiasis

    • Candida albicans is a yeastlike fungus that lives on the skin and in the mouth along with good bacteria. Sometimes, this fungus can overproduce and erode this natural bacteria, causing inflammation and infection. This overproduction of yeast is called candidiasis, which spurs both oral and penile thrush in men. Candidiasis is often caused by an overuse of corticosteroids and antibiotics and from poor dieting and chlorinated water. People with autoimmune diseases and cancer are highly susceptible to candidiasis and thrush.

    Mouth Thrush

    • Men who have mouth thrush normally have creamy white or yellow spots on their tongue and inside their mouth. This yeast infection can also occur on the roof of the mouth. Mouth thrush legions are not always painful but can bleed easily if someone rubs them. A man with thrush can also have cracked lips at the corner of his mouth. He may also have trouble tasting food and drinks and have a cottony sensation in his mouth. This condition can be hard to control if one's immune system is weakened. Doctors often prescribe antifungal tablets or lozenges for mouth thrush.

    Spreading of Mouth Thrush

    • Mouth thrush can spread to the throat and esophagus. This can be extremely dangerous in men because it can hinder their ability to swallow. Sometimes, thrush can lead to ulcers in the esophagus. Throat or esophageal thrush are typically treated with oral suspensions. However, intravenous medicines may be required.

    Penile Thrush

    • Men who have penile thrush typically have balanitis, an inflammation of the glans or penis head. Common symptoms include small red spots and a discharge. This discharge can have a starchy odor. Men who are uncircumcised can get a residue buildup that resembles cottage cheese under their foreskin. Penile thrush can be spread through sexual intercourse. It is usually treated with antifungal creams.

    Preventing Thrush

    • Both mouth and penile thrush can be prevented with a well-balanced diet, rest and a regular exercise regimen. Men who are uncircumcised need to clean thoroughly underneath the foreskin. Using condoms can prevent thrush from spreading.

Diseases - Related Articles