Chickenpox, despite being today a disease controlled by available vaccines, can appear, especially in children. Fortunately, in addition to the vaccine, there are some measures that we can take to avoid contagion , as well as treat a case of chickenpox infection in the most effective way.
In this article we will mention what chickenpox is, its most common symptoms, the steps to follow for a correct diagnosis and the appropriate treatment.
What is chickenpox?
It is a viral infection that causes fever and rashes all over the body . These blisters itch and fill with fluid. It is caused by the Varicella-zoster virus. This disease was more frequent in the past. Currently, there is a vaccine to protect everyone from childhood, so it is very rare to see this disease today.
This disease arises mainly during childhood . It can become contagious if people exposed to the virus have not had the disease or if they are not vaccinated. It is spread by saliva, contact with infected skin or with a contaminated clothing or space.
chickenpox symptoms
Chickenpox symptoms appear 10 to 21 days after contracting the virus . They last between 5 and 10 days. Let’s look at the ones that show up at the beginning of the infection.
- fever. Generally below 39 degrees.
- pain. It can appear on the head, throat and stomach.
- loss of appetite The person may not feel like eating, or the amount eaten is very little.
- General malaise. You feel symptoms similar to those of the common cold, as well as being very tired.
- eruptions. These are usually red, very similar to those produced by insect bites.
Once the eruptions appear, they go through three phases . The first is the red dots that cause itching. They can start on the abdomen, back and face, until they cover the whole body. In a healthy child, the eruptions can reach approximately 250 blisters. If the child has a weak immune system, or has skin problems, the rash can become severe, causing thousands of blisters to appear.
During the second phase, the skin of the blisters becomes thin and fills with fluid . When the blister reaches its peak, it bursts, draining the fluid inside. The blisters do not leave marks, unless they become infected by bacteria that children carry on their fingernails when they scratch the skin.
In the third stage, this is when the scabs form to cover the open blister . When all the blisters have crusted over and fall off on their own, the disease is no longer contagious.
It should be noted that, during the time the first wave of eruptions occurs and when they almost dry up completely, new eruptions appear. If the child has a fever above 39 degrees, disorientation, vomiting, or the rash is very red or sensitive, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Chickenpox Causes
Chickenpox is caused by a virus called varicella-zoster , which is spread by physical contact, contaminated objects and clothing, and when an infected person coughs or sneezes nearby. Complications can occur when contracting the disease as an adult. Vaccinated children can contract the virus, but only have mild outbreaks. The following groups are at higher risk.
- Babies. Especially those whose mothers are not vaccinated against chickenpox.
- Unvaccinated people. Especially those who have never contracted the virus.
- People with weak immune system. Low defenses increase the impact of the disease.
Among the complications that could occur are bacterial skin infections, dehydration, pneumonia , brain inflammation , among others. The chickenpox virus can remain inactive in the body for a lifetime. Sometimes it is activated as an adult causing herpes zoster.
How is chickenpox diagnosed?
A doctor can easily diagnose chickenpox by looking at the rashes and symptoms . It is important to inform the doctor in advance if the child has chickenpox. This will take the necessary measures so that other children in the office are not infected.
Your doctor may recommend certain tests, if deemed necessary, to help confirm the diagnosis. Tests can range from a blood test to a sample culture. The specialist can indicate treatments to relieve itching, or antibiotics, in case a skin infection has been generated.
chickenpox treatment
Chickenpox is a disease with a short duration. Because of this, the doctor may choose not to prescribe medication in healthy children, and just let the disease cycle until it is gone. If necessary, he can recommend the following medications.
- Antihistamines. To relieve itching and burning
- antibiotics. To control and eliminate a skin infection.
- Antivirals. In the case of possible risks to reduce the duration of infection
There are also other suggestions to avoid worsening the disease and its symptoms. Among the recommendations without drugs are the following.
- Avoid scratching. It is the main recommendation, because in this way injuries, infections and scars are avoided.
- Wear cool, loose and soft clothing. Comfortable clothing that is not hot will decrease itching. It is necessary to avoid tight or woolen clothing.
- Take lukewarm baths. To soothe the skin, you can try warm baths or add refined oats or cornstarch to the bath water.
- Avoid heat. It is advisable to avoid very humid or hot areas, if the skin begins to sweat the burning and stinging will increase.
You should avoid using medications without consulting your doctor . Acetylsalicylic acid and ibuprofen may be associated with serious complications. Acetaminophen , diphenhydramine, or cortisone cream may be used to relieve discomfort.
