from www.thirdage.com – Male yeast infection is caused by a type of yeast-like fungus known as Candida, and unlike yeast infections in women, male yeast infections are more difficult to detect due to its appearance in the prostate, a hard to reach place. The outside temperature of the skin can also keep the infection dormant, therefore allowing the infection to easily exist within someone without their knowledge.

Some of the ways men can contract the infection is either through having sexual intercourse with a woman who may have an infection at the time; from antibiotics which may offset the balance of good bacteria in the immune system leading to an overgrowth of the yeast in the body; from diabetes; and/or from common food products such as wheat and barley which some sources say may be contaminated with molds.

Symptoms vary widely and can be easily mistaken for other common issues. Men who are infected may experience skin irritation, itchiness, and soreness on the head of the penis, white and clumpy discharge, blisters on the head of the penis, and or pain during intercourse.

Other signs of the infection include experiencing constipation, indigestion, prostate problems, frequent intestinal gas, diarrhea, and fatigue.

Medical physicians may prescribe drugs like Diflucan and Nizoral and anti-fungal creams like Monistat to fight off the infection; however, some symptoms like itchiness can find relief by applying a simple mixture of vinegar and water to the afflicted area.

Maintaining a healthy diet is another way to help with symptoms, and also avoiding sex if one’s partner is experiencing signs of infection is a sure bet for avoiding a yeast infection.