Chickenpox Symptoms

Chickenpox or varicella is a highly contagious disease that can be caused by the varicella-zoster virus or VZV. Chickenpox symptoms include a rash of itchy, red bumps that develop into fluid-filled blisters, accompanied by fever, headache, and fatigue. It is highly contagious. Understanding the chickenpox causes and treatment options helps in managing and detecting this disease efficiently. In this article, we will cover chickenpox symptoms, treatment and prevention in detail.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is mostly a childhood disease but the virus can affect anyone at any age. Most individuals may affected by chickenpox between the ages of 3 to 6. In children, the sickness is minor but it can be dangerous if not taken care. The indicative symptoms of chickenpox may include coughing, nasal congestion, and low-grade fever. Sometimes migraines and tiredness also happen for some individuals.

After some days, the red spots start to grow and gradually spread all over the body. Chickenpox got its name from the red blisters that appear on the skin. These blisters are 1/5 inch to 2/5 inch (5mm to 10mm) wide and look like the chickpeas. Some people also say that chickenpox originated from chicken which is not true at all.   

Read More: Diseases – Definition, Classification, Types and Causes

Chickenpox Symptoms

Let us discuss the major Chickenpox Symptoms in detail as mentioned below. 

Fever

The initial symptom of the chickenpox is fever. Chickenpox fever generally ranges between 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit to 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit or higher sometimes. It is the first sign of the illness which generally leads to rash formation.

Fatigue and Malaise

Chickenpox may cause you to feel overall sickness including Fatigue and Malaise. Lack of energy is very common in this disease. These symptoms may vary but are commonly reported during the early stage of chickenpox.

Loss of Appetite

Due to fever and illness, the affected person may experience loss of appetite. It means they do not like to eat anything. But this feeling may cause more weakness and malaise.

Headache

Headache is also a bad symptom of the chickenpox. It can range from mild to moderate. 

Red Spots

In the initial stage, chickenpox may consist of rashes. They are small red spots raised gradually on the skin. These spots may appear on the chest or breast first and eventually spread to the whole body.

Blisters

Within a few hours or a day, the red spots become blisters. They are fluid-filled red spots. They can be found in any size and become itchy. 

Itching

It is a major symptom as it starts because of the blisters. It is an uncomfortable stage and can be intense for some people. Scratching the blisters may cause skin damage and may cause scars.

Distribution of Rash

Blisters may develop on the scalp, mouth, and genital areas. They can cause us discomfort and pain. Itching in sensitive areas may cause damage, so it is not recommended at all.

Complications From Chickenpox

Chickenpox may cause many further complications it is not treated well. Here are some complications as mentioned below. 

• Bacterial infections of your skin, blood, and soft tissues
• Encephalitis or Reye’s syndrome
• Pneumonia
• Dehydration
• Issues with how your blood clots
• Liver problems e.g Reye’s syndrom

Treatment of Chickenpox

There are different treatment processes for the various Chickenpox Symptoms. The symptoms can be managed until an affected system fights against the illness. Here are some of them as mentioned below. 

• Antiviral medications are prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of chickenpox symptoms by targeting the virus.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers are commonly used to alleviate fever and discomfort associated with chickenpox.
• Topical treatments like some lotion or oatmeal baths are applied to soothe the itching caused by chickenpox blisters and provide relief.
• Hydration is essential during chickenpox to help the body fight the infection and prevent complications; ensuring the affected person drinks plenty of fluids is crucial.
• Resting is important for the body to recover from chickenpox and for the immune system to effectively combat the virus, so individuals with chickenpox are advised to get ample rest.
• Scratching chickenpox blisters can lead to bacterial infections and scarring, so it’s vital to avoid scratching and take measures to minimize itching, such as keeping fingernails short and using gentle skincare products.

Preventive Measures Against Chickenpox

Now let us discuss the prevention of Chickenpox Symptoms as mentioned below.

• The chickenpox vaccine is the most effective preventive measure, recommended for people of all ages in two doses to avoid contracting the disease.
• If you feel that you can have or have chickenpox symptoms, contact your medical physician in the first place.
• Frequently wash hands and garments with warm water and soap. Keep clean your room also. 
• Keep your nails short and take a long nap. 
• If you experience itching, please use medications and cool sponge showers. 
• To avoid Reye’s syndrome, do not apply ibuprofen to the affected children. 
• Infected individuals should isolate themselves to prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular exercise can support the immune system against chickenpox.

Facts About Chickenpox Symptopms

Here are the facts of the chickenpox symptoms as mentioned below.

• Chickenpox can affect someone who was not affected by the disease before or has already taken the vaccine of the chickenpox. The duration of the disease is around four to seven days maximum. 
• The major visible symptom of chickenpox is the liquid lesions, these develop under a crust. With these itching is common in chickenpox disease.
• The rashes initially appear in the chest or breast, neck, and forehead and gradually spread throughout the whole body. 
• The rashes also may appear inside our lips, on eyelashes, and in the genital area. This rash develops after a week. 
• During chickenpox, the affected person can experience mild illness with fever, headache, sore throat, malaise, fatigue, and irritation.
• After four to five days these lesions start to explode and form crusts on our whole body.
• The quarantine period for chickenpox is 15 to 16 days from the time of infection. When the disease is totally cured, the skin may still be marked by the lesions.

Conclusion – Chickenpox Symptoms

Chickenpox is mostly a childhood disease but the virus can affect anyone at any age. Most individuals may affected by chickenpox between the ages of 3 to 6. It is a highly contagious disease that can be caused by the varicella-zoster virus or VZV. Some common chickenpox symptoms involve itchy rashes of small blisters and gradually scab over, fever, headache, sore throat, malaise, fatigue, and irritation. Take vaccination to protect yourself against chickenpox which is quite safe and effective. Most of the people who received the vaccination, do not develop chickenpox disease. 

FAQs – Chickenpox Symptoms

How do You Know If You have Chicken Pox?

Chickenpox typically presents with a rash of itchy, fluid-filled blisters accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever and fatigue.

How do Chicken Pox Start?

Chickenpox usually begins with a mild fever and general malaise, followed by the appearance of a rash that progresses from red spots to fluid-filled blisters.

What is The Main Cause of Chickenpox?

The main cause of chickenpox is the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the rash.

How will Chickenpox Go Away?

Chickenpox typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks as the body’s immune system fights off the virus.

Can I Take Bath During Chicken Pox?

Yes, taking lukewarm baths with mild soap can help soothe itching from chickenpox blisters, but avoid hot water to prevent further irritation.

What Food To Avoid For Chickenpox?

Avoid spicy, salty, and acidic foods that may irritate chickenpox sores, and opt for soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow.

Is Chicken Pox Sudden?

Chickenpox usually starts with mild symptoms, then progresses to a rash of itchy blisters, often appearing suddenly after an incubation period of 10-21 days.