Chickenpox

Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, this medical condition is characterized by super-itchy skin rashes with blisters consistently for days. Gradually, the blisters pop with fluid within and start leaking by themselves.

In most cases, it appears in mild nature among children but severe in adults. No matter its severity level, this infection requires prescription treatments to prevent adverse irritations on the skin or stop passing on to others.

What causes Chickenpox?

This infection is caused and spread by the varicella-zoster virus (VCV) that belongs to the herpesvirus family. It easily spreads when a non-infected person comes into close contact with the infected individual.

For instance, making physical contact or sharing the belongings of the infected person increases the risk of passing infection.

Chickenpox in adults can be prevented to a great extent with yearly shots (as a preventive measure). But, if you haven’t been vaccinated for viral infections or it’s been long getting vaccinations, the risk of exposure to such medical conditions is higher.

Even if the infected individual recovers, the virus resides in the body in dormant mode which increases the chances of it getting reactivated later in life causing shingles.

What are the symptoms of chickenpox?

Chickenpox symptoms are visible usually after 10 to 21 days of the individual being affected by the VCV. Its common symptoms resemble flu, cold, fever, etc with skin rashes appearing in mild to moderate nature. Later, it could develop as a severe and itchy rash turning into fluid-filled blisters.

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Irritability
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Red and itchy rashes appear on distinct body parts
• Fluid-filled blisters scabbing eventually

This medical condition will not occur overnight but develops gradually as the virus spreads the infection throughout the body. Look for unusual symptoms like small red spots, blisters with fluid, and scab formation upon healing. It is best to consult the healthcare professional at the start of the infection to get it treated with minimal discomfort.

What is the name of the chickenpox in adults?

Chickenpox in adults can be called adult chickenpox or simply chickenpox. However, adults have severe symptoms of skin allergies during this viral infection. This severity increases exposure to complicated medical conditions like pneumonia or bacterial infections. In rare cases, it may cause inflammation of the brain(encephalitis) too. With this said, even with the right care measures & appropriate treatment, it takes longer for adults to recover than children. It’s because of the severity of symptoms and higher chances of hospitalization as compared to children and adolescents.

How to tell the difference between chickenpox and other rashes?

At times, you may be confused if it is chickenpox or just a normal skin rash. It is thus important to understand the differentiating between chickenpox and other rashes. Let us share a few key differences below for your knowledge:

1. Itchiness – Chickenpox rashes are easily visible and noticeable to the naked eye. This is a skin condition very common among sufferers.
2. Blisters – As the infection progresses, the rashes turn into small fluid-filled bumps (medically termed as blisters). Other forms of blisters/rashes occurring during eczema or hives don’t have fluids.
3. Location of Rashes – Mostly emerging at the torso, it spreads to the back and face before spreading to other areas of the body. Compared to this, other rashes show up on the face, hands, or feet.
4. Progression of skin conditions – This infection progresses gradually, in different stages. Appearing as a red spot initially, it turns into rashes and blisters with time and lastly seen as a scab. Other rashes are not experienced in this pattern. They appear and subside suddenly.

Whether your skin rashes are mild or severe, seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid any future discomfort or major skin conditions.

What not to eat during chicken pox?

While no food restrictions exist to be followed during this infection, some foods escalate the symptoms or delay healing. Generally, the infected individual should avoid these (if possible) or keep low on:

• Sugary or salty foods: High-sugar foods weaken the response of the immune system which is much-needed for fighting viruses in the body. Salty foods are recognized as discomforting during chickenpox.
• Spicy or acidic foods: Heavily spicy foods can cause soreness in the mouth which aggregates discomfort due to sores caused by chickenpox.
• Crunchy or hard foods: Foods that are hard to chew are often harder to digest. Avoid munching on chips and crackers which increase the risk of blisters in your mouth.

These guidelines apply to both adults and children. On this note, it is best to stick to easily digested foods like soups, mashed vegetables, smoothies, etc so that major stomach upset can be avoided.

How long does it take to recover from chicken pox?

The recovery duration varies among individuals according to their age, severity level, metabolism & response to the treatment. However, the estimated recovery period is between 7 and 10 days. It mostly takes around a week for children or adults to recover fully with fewer rashes visible. In case the individual has any pre-existing skin conditions then recovery may take longer.

It is thus advised to the infected individuals to stay isolated until the blisters dry out so that the viruses don’t spread to others coming into their contact.

What is the fastest way to cure chicken pox?

A lot of chicken pox treatment options are available but they are not the cure. However, certain medications boost recovery while reducing discomfort. Here are certain things to consider for a smooth transition from chickenpox to a healthy state.

• Ensuring ample hydration throughout the infection.
• Don’t rub the blisters/rashes. Apply soothing lotions like calamine instead.
• Isolate yourself from public appearances or social gatherings. Avoid heavily-crowded places or stepping out of your house without any important purpose.
• Get adequate rest so that the medicines work optimally and your immune system sustains the potential to fight the viruses.
• OTC or prescription medicines (mostly antihistamines) can be used for relieving discomfort.
• Do not share your belongings or get into physical/close contact with anyone to prevent passing the infection.

What kills the chickenpox virus?

While searching for one, you’ll find numerous antivirals like Acyclovir aiding in chickenpox treatment and promoting overall wellness in no time. Such oral remedies are highly effective in lowering viral load from the body, thus relieving the severity of symptoms and shortening the duration of suffering. This drug is mostly suggested among individuals with a high risk of health complications due to chickenpox. It could be prescribed among infected individuals when the infection is diagnosed within 24 hours of rashes.

Conclusion

Chickenpox is a very common viral infection. It is contagious and can happen in different intensities for adults and children. With the right treatment and care measures, it is possible to control and manage the underlying symptoms effectively. Consult your healthcare professional for the best treatment option as per your severity of symptoms and buy 100% assured quality chickenpox medicines from authorized vendors like arrowmeds.com to support the efficacy of treatment.