condition
Candidal balanitis
Candida is a very common yeast causing a thrush infection. This gives rise to itching and soreness on skin around the genitals, and sometimes pain when passing urine. Warm damp conditions allow the yeast to grow, leading to a distinct bright red rash, often with small red bumps or pus-filled bumps around the edge.
Soreness rather than itchiness distinguishes it from other causes of rash. In men, it can affect the penis and foreskin, causing candidal balanitis, and may cause some pain on passing urine.
What can you find here?
Is it contagious?
It is not a sexually transmitted infection, although sex can instigate or aggravate it, and partners can also develop symptoms.
You can purchase over-the-counter thrush treatments from your local pharmacy. This can be in the form of a cream, powder, or spray that can clear the infection and relieve the soreness and itchiness.
To help avoid candidal balanitis you can:
• avoid wearing tight, restrictive or synthetic clothing
• wear breathable cotton underwear
• avoid using soap, deodorants, genital sprays, bubble bath, or any other potential irritants on the genital area – only use water to wash.
Caidr pharmacists' top tips
Candidal fungal infections such as thrush or candidal balanitis can easily be treated by using an antifungal cream such as those containing clotrimazole such as Lotrimin, or containing miconazole such as Micatin.
The creams should usually be applied twice a day for 7 to 14 days, or up to 3 days after the rash has cleared.
Am I fit for work?
You are fit for work if you have candidal balanitis.
When should I see my doctor?
You should see your doctor or sexual health clinic if you have tried over-the-counter measures and the symptoms have not completely cleared up or have come back quickly.
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