Is it Jock Itch or HSV? A Quick Guide of Symptoms and Treatments

by John Dugan Owner

It starts out as a little itch in the shorts. Then it’s itching all the time. Once the soreness and redness set in, it's all-hands-on-deck to find out what is causing this discomfort. Could it be as simple as a breakout of jock itch, or is it something worse? This article will help men sort out the big differences between jock itch and HSV when dealing with a male organ rash. It will also provide treatment options and some male hygiene tips that can keep rashes and irritation away in the future.

Signs and Symptoms: Jock Itch

Jock itch, also known by its fancy Latin name, tinea cruris, is a highly contagious skin infection caused by numerous types of fungus like those that cause athlete's foot. It infects the male organ, buttocks, and inner thighs. It is often demarked by a ring-shaped rash, which is no surprise, since it is a form of ringworm. Jock itch loves to live in warm, moist places. People who sweat a lot, are overweight or have eczema have higher chances of contracting it. Those who wear tight clothes or have been in contact with someone else with jock itch also have a higher instance of contracting the infection.

If a man has one of the symptoms below, it’s likely he has jock itch:

- A red, circular rash that has raised edges and can be a bit scaly

- Cracking, flaking, or peeling skin

- Itching and burning at the rash site

Signs and Symptoms: HSV

HSV is caused by the simplex virus and is a partner-transmitted disease. According to the CDC, more than one out of every six people aged 14-49 has HSV. It is transmitted by intimate contact or coming into contact with secretions from a sore.

Symptoms can be very mild, so it can be easy to dismiss a HSV sore as a pimple or ingrown hair. However, if a man has one of the symptoms below, he may have HSV:

- Small sores appear first which then form skin ulcers and scabs

- Pain

- Itching

- Flu-like symptoms such as fever, swollen glands, or body aches

Men experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor immediately for diagnosis. HSV can go dormant for years before another outbreak but still lives in the body.

Still Confused? Look for These Major Differences

There are a few major differences to distinguish if a rash is jock itch or HSV. First, is the location. Jock itch will rarely appear on the member, and instead prefers the inner legs or other moist crevices. HSV will appear on the shaft and head of the member.

Jock itch also looks more like a red rash with ridges; whereas, HSV looks more like fluid-filled blisters that turn crusty when popped.

Treatment: Jock Itch

If you just try to ignore jock itch, it may outlast as it can hang on for months. Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to treat. Over-the-counter antifungals can clear it up in a few short weeks. Also, keep the area clean and dry at all times to speed up healing.

Treatment: HSV

HSV cannot be cured but can be treated. Medications can shorten or prevent frequent outbreaks. There is a daily medication which can be taken to reduce the risk of passing the infection to a partner.

Preventative Care

In addition to practicing the safest contact possible, good hygiene can keep unwanted male organ rashes at bay. Practice exemplary grooming habits by washing the private area daily with a gentle cleanser and warm water. After washing, thoroughly dry the area to decrease moisture that attracts bacteria.

Once cleaned and dried, apply a specially formulated male organ health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) to the member and surrounding area. Find a product that uses natural emollients like Shea butter and vitamin E that seal in moisture and keep this tender skin hydrated. Also look for lotions with nutrients like vitamin A which is an antibacterial agent and works to combat disagreeable odors caused by bacteria that flourish in warm, dark areas, such as the private area. This combination used daily will keep the manhood supple, smooth, and healthy.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common male organ health issues, tips on improving sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy member. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.