Most common genital infections in diabetes

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 reduces the activity of the immune system, favoring the appearance of symptoms. of infection.

The microorganisms normally related to genital infections in diabetes are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus e Candida sp.which are part of the person’s normal microbiota, but due to excess circulating sugar, their quantity increases.

Main infections

The main genitourinary infections in diabetes that can occur in both men and women are:

1. Candidiasis

Candidiasis is one of the most common infections in diabetes and is caused by fungi of the genus Candida sp., more 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, its quantity may increase, resulting in infection.

The infection by 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 infection by Candida albicans.

Treatment for candidiasis is with antifungal medicines, in the form of tablets or ointments that must be applied to the area, according to medical recommendations. Furthermore, when the infection is recurrent, it is important that the affected person’s partner also undergoes treatment, to prevent further contamination. Know how to identify the symptoms and how to treat all types of candidiasis.

2. Urinary tract infection

Urinary infections, in addition to being able to occur due to Candida sp., can also happen due to the presence of bacteria in the urinary system, mainly Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Proteus is wonderful e 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 more serious cases there may also be blood in the urine and inflammation of the prostate in men.

The treatment of urinary tract infections is carried out according to the cause of the problem, but antibiotics such as amoxicillin are generally 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 infections, it is important that you go to the doctor every time symptoms of infection appear so that the microorganism and sensitivity profile can be identified, as it is likely that the infectious agent has acquired resistance over time. See how urinary infection is treated.

3. Infection by Ringworm of the leg

A Ringworm of the leg is a fungus that may also be related to diabetes, and can affect the groin, thighs and buttocks, resulting in some signs and symptoms such as pain, itching, burning redness and small red blisters in the affected organs.

Genital mycosis is treated 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 pills, such as fluconazole, to combat the fungus. Find out about the treatment for this type of infection.

It is important to remember that as soon as symptoms appear, you should see a doctor to diagnose the cause of the changes in the genital region and begin treatment, preventing the progression of the disease and the appearance of complications.

How to prevent recurring infections

To prevent recurrent infections in diabetes, it is important to control circulating sugar levels. To do this, it is recommended:

• Keep blood sugar controlled, so that excess blood sugar does not harm the immune system;
• Observe the genital region daily, looking for changes such as redness and blisters in the skin;
• Use a condom during intimate contact, to prevent the spread of diseases;
• Avoid frequent washing with showers in the genital region, so as not to alter the pH of the region and not encourage the growth of microorganisms;
• Avoid wearing very tight or hot clothes throughout the day, as they favor the proliferation of microorganisms on the genitals.

However, by controlling blood glucose and taking the necessary care to avoid infections, it is possible to lead a normal life and live well with diabetes.