What is the difference between Jock Itch and Herpes?

Jock itch and herpes are diseases that are often contacted among non-health personnel. Jock itch is usually caused due to a fungal infection referred to as trichophyton rubrum. Herpes is generally caused due to the herpes simplex virus.

Jock itch has several names, as it can be referred to as crotch itch, eczema marginatum, gym itch, crotch rot, ringworm of the groin, and most especially tinea crucris. This disease can occur in both males and females, but the male sex is more prone to it.

Herpes can also be referred to as herpes simplex virus, and it can be of two kinds; Herpes Simplex virus type 1 (i.e., HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex virus type 2 (i.e., HSV-2). Another cause of jock itch is a fungus disease known as athlete's foot or tinea pedis. This disease can be caused due to the wearing of tight clothing like a jockstrap, which can lead to the spread of fungus due to sweat.

On the contrary, herpes is caused by a virus and can be HSV-1 or HSV-2. The HSV-1 is found in the mouth, throat, eyes, and central nervous system, which can lead to herpesviral encephalitis or bell's palsy in the brain. Primarily, the HSV-2 affects the anus and genital system.

Jock itch and Herpes are itches in the groin that affect men. Jock itch, also known by its Latin name, tinea cruris, is a highly contagious skin infection caused by numerous types of fungus like those that cause athlete’s foot. A ring-shaped rash often demarks it since it is a form of ringworm. It usually infects the genitals, buttocks, and inner thighs.Men that sweat a lot, wear tight clothes, are overweight or have eczema have a higher chance of contracting it. It can also be contracted by having contact with someone that has the infection.

On the other hand, Herpes is caused by a simple virus. Herpes is a fluid-like blister that appears on the shaft and glans of the penis and is known to turn crusty when popped. It is a sexually transmitted disease, which can be sent by oral, vaginal, and anal sex. It is also caused by coming into contact with secretions from a sore.