What Is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is a contagious disease resulting from the ‘varicella-zoster’ virus. Chickenpox is more prevalent among children but might also affect individuals who belong to the adult population, where the symptoms might be more severe. Chickenpox is known to be monitored because it is accompanied by fever and a skin rash due to which people may feel severe itching.

Though it is a condition that, in most cases, will resolve on its own, it has many complications, especially for adults, pregnant women, newborn babies and people with a low immune system.

Chickenpox is very contagious from person to person. Common methods of transmission:

• Contact with fluid from chickenpox blisters
• Airborne transmission by coughing and sneezing
• Contact with contaminated surfaces
• Contact with an infected person

Chickenpox sufferers are considered contagious a day or two prior to the onset of the rash and until all the blisters are dry and have formed scabs.

After being exposed, the symptoms will begin appearing in 10-21 days. At this stage, the virus replicates in the body without causing any visible symptoms.

Prior to Eruption of Rash

Before the rash sets in, symptoms may be flu-like. Initial symptoms might manifest in the following ways

• Fever
• Headache
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat

Such symptoms are relatively mild in children, but in adults, they are quite noticeable.

Stages of Chickenpox Rash

The rash associated with chickenpox develops in sequences and may also appear in various forms simultaneously.

Red spots

Small red spots appear for the first time, most often on a person's face, scalp, chest or back.

Fluid-filled Blisters

These spots develop into fluid-filled blisters, causing itching, within a day.

Bursting

The blisters rupture and then dry and form scabs.

There may be new spots emerging for a number of days; this is the reason why all phases may be witnessed simultaneously.

Symptoms of Chicken Pox

Typical symptoms are:

• Itchy rash skin
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Appetite suppression

Itching is often severe and scratching can cause infection and scarring.

Chickenpox in Adults

Chickenpox is more serious in adults than in children. In adults, there may be

• Higher fever
• Extensive rash
• Severe fatigue
• Higher likelihood of complications

Those who remained adults without being vaccinated or exposed to chickenpox are more susceptible.

Chickenpox in Pregnancy

A pregnancy with chickenpox warrants special care. Possible risks include:

• Infection of the baby in early pregnancy
• Low birth weight
• Preterm delivery
• Severe illness of the mother

Pregnant women who have suspected cases of chickenpox need to seek immediate medical attention.

Possible Chicken Pox Complications

Although most people experience a light case of CMV, there are possible complications.

Complications may include:

• Secondary bacterial skin infections
• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Scarring as a result of scratching
• Reye's syndrome (rare)

People who do not have strong immunity can face severe complications.

Diagnosis of Chickenpox

The diagnosis is usually made after clinical examination. Steps to diagnosis may include the following:

• Visual inspection of the rash
• Medical history
• Blood tests in uncertain cases

Laboratory confirmation of diagnosis is rarely required in common cases.

Treatment of Chickenpox

Currently, there is no cure for immediate destruction of the virus, but symptom management and the prevention of complications are used.

Home treatment is possible in most mild cases. Supportive care encompasses:

• Fluids in plenty
• Short fingernails to avoid scratching others
• Loose and soft clothing worn by the patient
• Cool baths for relieving itch

Hospital Treatment

Hospitalization may be indicated for:

• Severe symptoms
• Adults with complications
• Pregnant women
• Immunocompromised patients

The earlier the treatment, the better.

Isolation and Infection Control

To prevent spread:

• Stay isolated until all blisters have crusted
• Stay away from pregnant females and babies
• Follow hygiene procedures

Preventive measures comprise:

• Vaccination for chickenpox
• Staying away from people with infections
• Hygiene practices

Immunization can prevent the disease from progressing to its dangerous effects even if the individual becomes infected.

When To See A Doctor

Evaluation in a medical setting is required in case of:

• Fever persists for more than 4 days
• Rash turns very painful or develops infection
• Difficulty breathing
• Drowsiness or confusion
• Rash around the area of the eyes

Prompt care prevents complications.

Chickenpox Treatment at Prakash Hospital

At Prakash Hospital, chickenpox patient care is provided by accurate diagnosis, symptomatic management and careful monitoring to avoid complications. Special care is given to more vulnerable groups like adults, pregnant ladies and immunocompromised patients. Patient education regarding chickenpox patient care is also given importance.