Chickenpox

Chickenpox or Varicella is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is highly contagious and primarily affects children, but it can also occur in adults who have not been vaccinated or previously infected by the virus.

Symptoms of chickenpox include an itchy rash with fluid-filled blisters that appear all over the body. A rash will appear on the skin on the first day of the illness. It looks like tiny red spots and is mainly on the upper back or chest before spreading to other areas.

The rash may also be on the face and lower extremities in more severe cases. The papules blister and become pustules, forming scabs that fall off. The bumps come in successive crops, meaning that while some are drying, others are beginning to form. After a few days, the skin clears, and the child feels like their old self again. The illness usually lasts from fourteen to seventeen days.

Other common symptoms of chickenpox include:

• Fever
• Muscle Aches
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Appetite Loss

Chickenpox is a contagious disease that spreads quickly through contact with an infected person who coughs or sneezes.

Chickenpox is usually a mild disease that goes away without treatment. However, certain groups of people, like newborns, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are at risk for complications.

Get vaccinated to prevent chickenpox. If you get it, manage symptoms and practice good hygiene to avoid spreading it.

If not immunized, it's easier to get chickenpox at a young age versus being a young adult and older. Young children are uncomfortable with this virus, but the illness is more severe, with a higher chance of complications if contracted in adulthood. Adult complications can lead to pneumonia, pregnancy complications, and problems with male fertility.

Special Precautions

The use of aspirin in children with chickenpox has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a serious disease that can affect the liver and brain and cause death.

Reye's syndrome is a rare condition that causes the brain to swell and the liver to lose function after a viral illness or infection like chickenpox or the flu. It's most common in children who take aspirin to treat symptoms during a viral infection or illness. Instead of aspirin, you can use non-aspirin medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve fever from chickenpox. You should not give aspirin or products that contain aspirin to a child with chickenpox to reduce fever.

This warning is for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Chicken Pox

If you have chicken pox, there's nothing to be done about the viral infection other than ride it out. Home remedies can help to help reduce the irritation and itching accompanying the rash. Help children stop scratching to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others and minimize the chance of scarring once the infection subsides.

It's important to note that these remedies are not meant to replace medical advice, and consulting with a healthcare professional is always recommended, especially for severe cases or individuals at high risk for complications.

Here are some home remedies that may provide relief:

Antihistamines

An oral antihistamine like Benadryl Elixir reduces swelling and the itch. Follow all manufacturer's instructions.

Calamine Lotion

Apply calamine lotion to the affected areas to relieve itching and dry the blisters. Follow the instructions on the product and avoid scratching the blisters.

OTC Topical Antibiotic

If the chickenpox sore has become infected from excessive scratching, an OTC ointment containing antibiotics or hydrocortisone cream may be warranted to reduce pain and risk of scarring.

Colloidal Oatmeal Bath

A bath of finely ground oats (colloidal oatmeal) is soothing to irritated skin and can help reduce itch.

Pour one to two cups of colloidal oatmeal into the warm water as the bath is drawn. Soak in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes and gently pat the skin to dry.

Tylenol

If the fever is mild, allowing it to run its course might be better, as it is part of the body's disease-fighting mechanism.

If fever and itching are extremely uncomfortable, Tylenol may give relief. Under NO circumstances should you give a child with chicken pox aspirin.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great remedy to reduce itchiness and promote drying. For a bath treatment, stir half a cup of baking soda into a shallow bath or a full cup into a deep bath, and using a washcloth, spread the bath water over all of the affected areas of the child's skin.

Create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with warm water until you have a thin paste. Gently apply the baking soda paste to the skin. Let the paste dry thoroughly, then gently rinse off with warm water. Avoid areas where the skin is broken or injured.

Raw Honey

Adding raw honey to the affected area with chicken pox can help provide relief as it can help reduce inflammation, itching, and scarring.

Warm the honey and apply it to the skin. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off.

Ice Packs

Use cool washcloths or covered icepacks on the itchy areas 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off to reduce itch and inflammation and provide temporary relief.

Rest

The virus must run its course, so the best thing to do is sleep, drink plenty of fluids, and nourish your body until you recover.

Caution

NEVER give aspirin or any products containing aspirin to children who have a viral disease such as chicken pox. It could cause serious side effects. Always check with your doctor.

Remember, these remedies are meant to relieve symptoms. If you or your child experience severe symptoms or concerns, seek medical advice from a healthcare professional.