Chicken Pox Symptoms
Chickenpox is a very common illness that happens to young children, usually those under the age of 12. A rash develops, which is itchy and looks like blisters, and can spread all over the body. Flu-like symptoms can accompany chicken pox symptoms. Chickenpox is extremely contagious, so any infected child should stay at home until all the symptoms disappear. Chickenpox usually only happens once to a person.
Those who catch chickenpox will develop a red and itchy rash on the skin. This rash usually will start on the stomach or the back and face. It then quickly spreads pretty much all over the body, and can also get into the ears, nose, mouth, and genitals. The beginning chickenpox symptoms look like a rash that resembles insect bites or pimples. They then become blisters that fill with a clear liquid. When the blister breaks it can leave open sores, and crust over to brown scabs.
Chickenpox symptoms can be less than a quarter of an inch wide, and come in groups over a period of 2 to 4 days. Other chickenpox symptoms can include fever, headaches, sore throat, abdominal pain, and a general sick feeling. These symptoms usually appear a couple days before the rash starts. Those who get chickenpox generally get over it easily, but for some, it can affect a weak immune system more severely. Bacterial infections may arise, which may attack not only the skin but the lungs, joints, bones and brain as well. If you believe you or a loved one has chickenpox symptoms, talking to a doctor is important.
Since the chickenpox is caused by a virus, many doctors won’t give out antibiotics. You may be prescribed them, however, if bacteria develops because of the sores. Children, who are more likely to scratch at the chickenpox, may be prescribed these antibiotics. There are other ways, though, to deal with chickenpox, as it is extremely uncomfortable.
Cool, wet compresses can relive the inching within the first couple of days. So can a cool bath, which can be taken every 3 to 4 hours. Some doctors recommend an oatmeal bath, (found at the pharmacy or store) to help with the painful itching. When emerging from the bath, you should pat the skin dry, not rub.
Calamine lotion is good for the itch, too, but is not recommended for the face. You can ask your doctor to prescribe other over-the-counter itch relief medicines that he thinks may help. Acetaminophen can also be given or taken to help relieve some of the discomfort of chickenpox symptoms.