How to Deal with Chickenpox Discomfort

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), also known as human herpes virus 3 (HHV-3), one of the eight herpes viruses known to affect humans. It most often affects children. Symptoms, including itchy and watery rash that usually go away without treatment. But there are steps you can take to help lessen the discomfort.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Acetaminophen or paracetamol
• Itch ointment and creams
• Calamine
• Lukewarm bath
• Oatmeal
• Cold compress
• Blister ointment

1. Use acetaminophen for pain. Never give children aspirin to treat chickenpox, as it can trigger Reye syndrome which can be very dangerous.

2. Take a lukewarm bath every few hours. Add oatmeal to the bath to soothe the irritated skin and lessen the itchy sensations.

3. Don't rub the skin with towel after bathing, pat it dry instead.

4. Applying cool compress every few hours can also help alleviate chickenpox discomfort.

5. Apply calamine lotion on the lesions or scabs; however, do not apply it on the face.

6. Eat soft, mild and bland food if you have blisters in your mouth or tongue. Avoid salty food for it may be painful. Avoid giving drink that is too sour to prevent the pain.

7. Ask a local pharmacist for over-the-counter itch- or pain-relieving creams and ointments. Apply them as directed.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply chapstick or blister ointment on affected lips.
• Avoid scratching and popping the lesions for they will leave a mark.
• Chickenpox is contagious. Avoid exposing your child with other kids or people who have not had chickenpox yet.

[Blackbear]

on 1/28/2008 I got them at age 20 so I remember vividly! Even then I hadn't known what to do to relieve the discomfort so I slept when I could to just get away from them. Wish I had this article then because I was clueless about chicken pox and no one wanted to come around me long enough to give me advice.

[Ceile]

on 1/14/2008 My youngest son had chickenpox at the age of 22, and was he miserable! It's worse if contracted at an older age. Possibly, that's why my mother 'introduced' us to chickenpox while we were all very young (that was before the vaccine days!). Great steps for relieving the suffering that goes along with itchy chickenpox!

[MidniteWriter]

on 1/6/2008 Makes me itch just thinking about it. Don't you wish they had OTC benedryl or ibuprophen when we were young? Let alone the vaccine. These are all great tips. Glad to read this, thank you!

[grouch]

on 1/3/2008 ohhh ick. I remember this back in the day when your parents would expose you by first grade that was our cure back then. I can still remember iching my sides raw. Thanks for the tips.