Chickenpox is a highly contagious and common childhood illness. It can cause an itchy rash and blisters on the skin, and can cause fever and tiredness. Although chickenpox can be a mild illness, it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that early treatment can be sought and the virus can be prevented from spreading. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent chickenpox and treatments available to reduce the severity of the symptoms. This article will explain the symptoms of chickenpox, treatments that can be used to reduce the severity of the symptoms, and methods of prevention. By understanding chickenpox and taking preventative measures, parents and caregivers can help keep their children safe from this virus.
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral illness that causes an itchy rash, blisters, and fever. The virus is known as Varicella zoster and is very common in children. It is generally diagnosed in children between the ages of 1 and 15 years old, although it can be contracted at almost any age. It is transmitted through saliva and respiratory secretions, so it can be easily passed from person to person. The symptoms of chickenpox include an itchy rash, fever, tiredness, headache, and blisters on the skin. It is extremely important to seek medical advice early if any of these symptoms are noticed. Chickenpox is a serious infection but can be easily prevented. There is also a treatment available to reduce the severity of the symptoms.source
Symptoms of chickenpox:
There are a number of symptoms of chickenpox. Some of the main symptoms include an itchy rash, fever, tiredness, headache, and blisters on the skin. These symptoms may appear anywhere between 2 and 14 days after being infected with the virus. The rash can appear anywhere on the skin and may be accompanied by a fever. The fever is the body’s response to the infection and will normally subside after a few days. Blisters will generally appear on the body 24 to 48 hours after the rash begins. These blisters may be red or bluish-grey in color. They may also itch or be painful, but this is more common in adults. The blisters are not contagious and will generally disappear about 5 to 7 days after first appearing. In rare cases, the blisters may become infected and cause a fever. This condition is known as impetigo.
Treatment for chickenpox:
There is no specific treatment for chickenpox, but there are ways to reduce the severity of the symptoms. If a person contracts chickenpox, they should rest as much as possible. A hot bath can be used to soothe the itching and pain associated with the blisters. A cold compress can be used to reduce a fever and a paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to reduce any headaches or general pain. Parents should also avoid rubbing the blisters as this can cause an infection. A mixture of water and baking soda can be used to clean the blisters and reduce the pain and itching. It is important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the course of the illness.Source
Home remedies for chickenpox:
There are several home remedies for chickenpox. Resting and drinking plenty of water are important for recovery.
- Taking Vitamin B6 - Vitamin B6 can be used to reduce the severity of the symptoms of chickenpox. Vitamin B6 can be taken as a liquid or tablet.
- Using Aloe vera - Aloe vera can be used to soothe the blisters and reduce the itching.
- Using Cucumbers - Cucumbers can also be used to reduce the inflammation and itching.
Complications of chickenpox:
The most serious complication of chickenpox is infection. If the blisters become infected, they can cause significant pain. They will require medical attention and antibiotic drugs. If a pregnant woman contracts chickenpox, it can be dangerous to the baby. There is also a small chance of developing shingles later in life. Shingles is a complication of the chickenpox infection where the virus remains in the nerve endings and is activated later in life. It causes a rash and pain in the same areas as the chickenpox infection. It is important to seek medical advice if any signs of complications are noticed.
Prevention of chickenpox:
A vaccine is available to prevent chickenpox. It is recommended that children aged between 12 and 24 months receive the first dose of the vaccine. The second dose is given between the ages of 4 and 6. The vaccine is also recommended for adults who have never had chickenpox. It is important to keep in mind that the vaccine will not provide immediate protection. The person will need to wait 2 to 3 weeks before the immunity kicks in. It is also important to note that the vaccine can cause mild side effects. They include redness and swelling at the site of the injection and a mild fever.
Vaccination for chickenpox:
A vaccine is available to protect against chickenpox. It is recommended that children aged between 12 and 24 months receive the first dose of the vaccine. The second dose is given between the ages of 4 and 6. The vaccine is also recommended for adults who have never had chickenpox. It is important to keep in mind that the vaccine will not provide immediate protection. The person will need to wait 2 to 3 weeks before the immunity kicks in. It is also important to note that the vaccine can cause mild side effects. They include redness and swelling at the site of the injection and a mild fever.
Chickenpox in adults:
Chickenpox in adults is different from chickenpox in children. It is often more severe and has a higher risk of complications. A person who has never contracted chickenpox is at a higher risk of contracting the virus as an adult. People who live or work closely with children are more at risk of contracting the virus. Adults who contract chickenpox may need to be hospitalized, especially if they have other medical conditions or are pregnant. There is no specific treatment for chickenpox in adults. The same home remedies can be used, but are often more effective as adults are more sensitive to the irritation and pain.
When to see a doctor:
It is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible if any of the following symptoms are noticed:
- Fever above 39 degrees Celsius
- Swelling of the lymph nodes - An infection in the blisters.
- Headache that does not subside with painkillers
- Rash that is accompanied by abdominal pain
- Rash that lasts for more than 14 days These are all signs of a more serious condition and require medical attention.
Conclusion:
Chickenpox is a common and highly contagious childhood illness. It can cause an itchy rash and blisters on the skin, and can cause fever and tiredness. Although chickenpox can be a mild illness, it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that early treatment can be sought and the virus can be prevented from spreading. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent chickenpox and treatments available to reduce the severity of the symptoms. This article will explain the symptoms of chickenpox, treatments that can be used to reduce the severity of the symptoms, and methods of prevention. By understanding chickenpox and taking preventative measures, parents and caregivers can help keep their children safe from this virus
Reference:
https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chickenpox
https://www.webmd.com/children/what-is-chickenpox
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4017-chickenpox