Decompensated diabetes increases the risk of developing infections, especially those of the urinary system, due to constant hyperglycemia, because the large amount of sugar circulating in the blood favors the proliferation of microorganisms and decreases the activity of the immune system, favoring the appearance of symptoms infection.
The microorganisms normally related to genital infections in diabetes are Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Candida sp. , which are part of the person's normal microbiota, but due to the excess of circulating sugar, their quantity is increased.
The main genitourinary infections in diabetes that can happen in both men and women are:
1. Candidiasis
Candidiasis is one of the most frequent infections in diabetes and is caused by the fungus of the genus Candida sp ., Most often by Candida albicans . This fungus is naturally present in the genital microbiota of both men and women, but due to the decrease in the immune system, there may be an increase in its quantity, resulting in infection.
Infection with Candida sp . it is characterized by itching, redness and whitish plaques in the affected region, in addition to the presence of whitish discharge and pain and discomfort during intimate contact. Recognize the symptoms of Candida albicans infection .
The treatment for candidiasis is done with antifungal drugs, in the form of pills or ointments that must be applied on the spot, according to the medical recommendation. In addition, when the infection is recurrent, it is important that the affected person's partner also undergo treatment, to prevent further contamination. Learn to identify the symptoms and how to treat all types of candidiasis.
2. Urinary infection
Urinary infections, in addition to also happening due to Candida sp ., Can also happen due to the presence of bacteria in the urinary system, mainly Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus , Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae . The presence of these microorganisms in the urinary system leads to the appearance of symptoms such as pain, burning and urgency to urinate, however in the most severe cases there may also be blood in the urine and inflammation of the prostate in men.
The treatment of urinary tract infection is done according to the cause of the problem, but in general antibiotics such as amoxicillin are used, and the duration of treatment varies according to the severity of the infection. However, as it is common for people with diabetes to have recurrent urinary tract infections, it is important that you go to the doctor every time symptoms of infection appear in order to identify the microorganism and the sensitivity profile, since it is likely that the infectious agent has acquired resistance over time. See how treatment is done for urinary tract infection.
3. Tinea cruris infection
Tinea cruris is a fungus that can also be related to diabetes, reaching the groin, thighs and buttocks, resulting in some signs and symptoms such as pain, itching, burning redness and small red blisters on the affected organs.
The treatment of genital mycosis is done with antifungal ointments such as Ketoconazole and Miconazole, but when the infection is recurrent or when treatment with ointments does not eliminate the disease, it may be necessary to take medication in tablets, such as fluconazole to fight the fungus. Know the treatment for this type of infection.
It is important to remember that as soon as the symptoms appear, you should see the doctor to diagnose the cause of the changes in the genital region and start treatment, preventing the progression of the disease and the appearance of complications.
How to prevent recurrent infections
To prevent recurrent infections in diabetes, it is important that there is control of circulating sugar levels. For this, it is recommended:
- Keep blood glucose controlled, so that excess blood sugar does not harm the immune system; Observe the genital area daily, looking for changes such as redness and blisters on the skin; Use a condom during intimate contact, to avoid contagion of diseases; Avoid frequent washes with showers in the genital region, so as not to alter the pH of the region and not favor the growth of microorganisms; avoid wearing too tight or hot clothes throughout the day, as they favor the proliferation of microorganisms in the genitals.
However, by controlling blood glucose and taking the necessary precautions to prevent infections, it is possible to have a normal life and live well with diabetes.
