How do you treat yeast infection in men?

Yeast infection can be eradicated. There are two aims of yeast therapy.

1.      Inhibition of growth of already present yeasts by limiting the available space and nutrients for their growth.

2.      Killing them by using fungicidal substances.

Non-Pharmacological or Home treatment of Yeast Infection:

i) Reduce the intake of sugar:

Sugar (carbohydrates) is a favourite food of yeast and it accelerates its growth. Sugar based foods for example; Gluten-based foods, yeast foods, milk products, soy-foods, swordfish, tuna fish, shark, etc must be avoided.

ii) Unsweetened Yogurt:

Unsweetened Yogurt increases the number of good bacteria called lactobacillus. These bacteria inhibit the growth of yeast infection by occupying space and consuming the nutrients. Yeast is left with little space and nutrients and can’t be able to grow.

iii) Drink plenty of water.

Yeast makes the intestinal environment acidic which accelerate its growth. Drink plenty of water which will wash the acids out of the intestine. Moreover, increased water intake will lead to increase urine formation which washes the urethra and clear the toxins. (in case of genital candidiasis)

iv) Take a clove of garlic daily.

Garlic has this useful fungicidal and bactericidal property. It has been used in ancient medicine to treat infections. Take a slice of garlic daily and add garlic to your regular meals.

v) Take warm baths.

Warm the water and add one or two cups of vinegar into it. It will reduce the itchiness and will maintain the pH of the skin which will inhibit the growth of yeast.

 vi) Keep yourself dry:

Yeasts flourish in a warm and moist environment. That’s why sweaty feet (because they are mostly covered by shoes) and genitals are very prone to yeast infection. Dry yourself after a shower and change the swimsuit immediately after swimming. In summer, keep your feet and genital dry.

vii) Wear light clothing.

Cotton clothes have pores and promote air exchange and evaporation of water. Hence they keep the area dry and cool and inhibit the growth of yeasts. Avoid nylon and silk briefs which tend to keep the area warmer and cooler.

viii) Rinse Your Mouth with warm water.

If you have an oral yeast infection then Rinse your mouth with warm salt water three-five times a day. Decrease the intake of sweet food.

Pharmacological Treatment of Yeast Infection:

Taking Antifungal medicines along with adopting the above measures accelerate the therapeutic benefits and decrease the chances of recurrence significantly. Anti-fungal medicines are available in following forms.

1.      Antifungal creams and ointments.

Antifungal creams and ointments are applied to the affected area. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are available without a prescription and are commonly available.

2.      Oral Antifungal pills.

In case of severe infection oral antifungal pills are used.  You should take these pills only after consulting your doctor.

Oral Good Bacteria supplements:

In case of intestinal infection, syrups containing good bacteria can be taken (Optiflora). These bacteria are not harmful and inhibit the growth of yeast.