Chickenpox: How do You Treat it?

Posted April 20th, 2004 by jack

Chickenpox

Usually chickenpox is not treated at all. It is one of those childhood
diseases like mumps and measles and it will go on its own.

Chickenpox is caused by the virus Herpes Zoster. It
is very easy to catch as it spreads through the humidity in the air
in the incubation period of chickenpox which lasts from 7 to 23 days
and has no symptoms.

Once you've caught Varicella Herpes Zoster, it stays in your body
permanently but it is latent and not contagious after chickenpox. It
will however reactivate in 1 in 5 seniors and cause shingles, which
is not contagious.

If chickenpox is very severe or you are immunocompromised, an
antiviral agent may be prescribed. It will not cure chickenpox as
there is no cure for it and not for Varicella Herpes Zoster either.
The antiviral agent will reduce the symptoms and duration of
chickenpox and it will typically be Acyclovir or Famciclovir.

Treating Chickenpox

The symptoms of chickenpox are a rash that turns into blisters which
then turn into a dry scab. This can be seen all over the body and can be
very itchy and painful. You will also feel generally ill, with fever,
headaches and tiredness. You can ease these symptoms of chickenpox with

Fever reducing medications
Pain killers
Local anesthetic cream
Lukewarm baths

The Chickenpox Vaccine

There is also a vaccine against chickenpox which is recommended for
children in most countries. It will not eliminate the risk of chickenpox,
but it will reduce the risk considerably.

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Herpes Doctor