Signs and Symptoms of the Chickenpox
The most recognizable sign of Chickenpox is its characteristic rash. However, other symptoms prior to the development of the rash include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
The rash itself undergoes three different phases:
- Formation of red or pink bumps all over your body.
- Rupture and/or leakage of infectious fluid from the Bumps.
- Scab formation and healing.
Patients will be contagious until all the bumps have scabbed over.
Causes of Chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by a virus from the Herpes family called Varicella-Zoster. Most cases are transmitted via direct contact with an infected person’s body fluid. These include:
- Saliva
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Contact with blisters
At Risk Population
Previous infection, vaccination, or vertical immunity passed from mother to newborn (immunity lasts about three months from birth) reduces risk. Anyone who has not been exposed may contract the virus. Risk of infection also increases under any of these conditions:
- Recent contact with an infected individual.
- Under 12 years of age.
- Adults residing with infected children.
- Spending time in a school or childcare facility with infected individuals.
- Immunocompromised individuals.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is often clinical. See your doctor for confirmation. If the attending physician is unsure, farther lab investigations are also available to ascertain diagnosis.
Complications
Seek medical attention if the following conditions develop::
- Eyes become affected by the Rash.
- Rash becomes infected.
- Systemic symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness develop.
Populations most at risk include:
- Infants
- Elderly patients
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Pregnant women
Affected pregnant women may bear children with birth defects, including:
- Poor growth
- Small head size
- Eye problems
- Intellectual disabilities
Treatment
Most forms of treatment for Chickenpox concentrates on symptomatic and supportive care and infection control. Because it is caused by a virus, the body’s immune system needs time to heal. Infection control measures should also be instituted to prevent spread of the disease.
In the event of an unbearable itch, antihistamines can be used. Itching can also be soothed by:
- Bathing in lukewarm water
- Moisturizing lotions
- Comfortable clothing
High-Risk Patients
Antiviral drugs may be prescribed to those who experience complications from the virus, or who are at risk for adverse effects. Note though that these antiviral drugs do not cure chickenpox. Instead, they make the symptoms less severe, and make your body more likely to heal faster.
Duration of Disease
Most cases of chicken pox resolve within 10 days or so.
Chickenpox Immunity
Once exposed, most people become immune to the virus for their lifetime. However, in later stages of life, the varicella virus may re-emerge as Shingles during adulthood if the patient’s immune system is compromised.
Prevention
A chickenpox vaccine is available and should be given to the child between 12 and 15 months of age. A booster is given between age 4 and 6.
Adults can opt to take the vaccination though efficacy is reduced.
About The Author
Dr Lau Tzun Hon is a resident housecall doctor at CMY Medical. He received his MBBS (Hons) from Sydney University in 2001 and has served in the both private and government restructured hospitals prior to commencing his practice in Home Care.
While in the Government Restructured Hospitals, Dr Lau served primarily in the Department of Accident & Emergency Medicine and Anaesthesia. Upon entering the Private sector, Dr Lau worked in both public and private A&E departments before venturing into Home Care.
Over the years, he has developed a strong passion to maintain and enhance the quality of life for patients under his care. A strong believer that healthcare does not need to be financially straining, Dr Lau often delivers more value beyond expectations.
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