- How to know if it can be candidiasis
- What can cause candidiasis
- How to treat candidiasis
- How to prevent candidiasis
Candidiasis is a relatively common condition that is characterized by the excessive growth of fungi on the skin, which in the case of man happens more frequently in the penis and genital region, but it can also affect other places, such as the spaces between the toes or, even, the inside of the mouth.
When candidiasis appears, it tends to cause severe itching in the area, in addition to pain, redness and slight swelling. Since, in normal situations, skin bacteria prevent the overgrowth of fungi, it is common for candidiasis to be associated with a weakening of the immune system, as it happens during the flu, but it can also indicate the presence of some autoimmune disease. Thus, it is always important to consult a doctor to identify the cause.
Although it has a cure, candidiasis is an infection that can take several days to be treated, since it is necessary to have some hygiene care and use ointments and antifungal pills that eliminate excess fungi, which can be a long process. Better understand how the treatment of candidiasis in men is done.
How to know if it can be candidiasis
In most cases, candidiasis causes itching, redness and swelling of the affected area, but other symptoms may include:
- Local pain; Whitish plaques; Dry skin.
The diagnosis can be confirmed with the doctor, who, depending on the affected site, may have different specialties. For example, in the case of candidiasis on the penis it is recommended to consult a urologist, for candidiasis in the mouth or skin, an evaluation with a dermatologist should be done.
The confirmation of the diagnosis is usually made by observing the location and assessing the symptoms and the man's health history, however, laboratory tests may also be ordered to prove the presence of the fungus.
Take our online test to find out what the chances are of having candidiasis.
What can cause candidiasis
Candidiasis can be caused by several factors, but it is more common to manifest when the immune system is weakened, which can happen due to situations such as:
- Having a flu or cold; Having a disease that affects the immune system, such as HIV or lupus; Being undergoing chemotherapy; Undergoing treatments that lower the immune system, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
In addition, other conditions that also facilitate the onset of candidiasis include having uncontrolled diabetes, making frequent use of antibiotics, not having proper hygiene or having a diet that is very high in sugar.
Some people may also have candidiasis when the place is very hot and humid, which can easily happen in the groin, armpits or feet.
How to treat candidiasis
Candidiasis is curable and, in most cases, treatment can be done at home with the use of antifungal ointments, such as fluconazole, which should be applied daily for 7 to 10 days, according to the medical recommendation.
When treatment for candidiasis with ointment has no effect or in cases of recurrent candidiasis, oral antifungals such as fluconazole or ketoconazole can also be used for up to 14 days.
Another strategy that helps cure candidiasis faster is to invest in foods like parsley and lemon that can be used to season the salad or squeezed in a little water, without sweetening it. See other homemade recipes to treat candidiasis.
Ginger and pennyroyal tea are other great options to complete medical treatment. See more tips of what to eat in this video by nutritionist Tatiana Zanin:
How to prevent candidiasis
It is common for candidiasis to reappear, and to prevent recurrence it is necessary to:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in water, fruits and vegetables to strengthen the immune system; Avoid wearing warm, tight or wet clothes; Properly sanitize the penile region; Use a condom in intimate relationships.
Strengthening the immune system is also an excellent way to prevent the proliferation of candida albicans , so you should eat less sugar, exercise and have a healthy diet constantly.
