A - Z Encyclopedia
Understanding Chickenpox
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms?
Chickenpox appears as a very itchy rash that spreads from the torso to the neck, face, and limbs. Lasting seven to 10 days, the rash progresses from red bumps to fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) that drain and scab over. Vesicles may also appear in the mouth, around the eyes, or on the genitals and can be very painful.
This cycle repeats itself in new areas of the body until finally, after about 2 weeks, all of the sores have healed. The disease is transmissible until this time.
Call Your Doctor If:
- You think your child has chickenpox; a doctor can confirm your diagnosis.
- Chickenpox is accompanied by severe skin pain and the rash produces a greenish discharge -- signs of a secondary bacterial skin infection.
- Chickenpox is accompanied by a stiff neck, persistent sleepiness, or lethargy -- symptoms of a more serious illness such as meningitis or encephalitis. Get medical help immediately.
- Your child is recovering from chickenpox and begins running a fever, vomiting, having convulsions, or is drowsy. These are signs of Reye's syndrome, a dangerous, potentially fatal disease that sometimes follows viral infections, particularly if aspirin has been used in treatment. Get medical help immediately.
- An adult family member gets chickenpox. In adults, the illness can lead to complications such as pneumonia. See your doctor without delay.
- You are pregnant, have never had chickenpox, and are exposed to the disease; your unborn child may be at risk for birth defects. See your doctor without delay.
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
