Chickenpox: What It Is, Symptoms, Contagion, and Treatment

Chickenpox is an infectious disease characterized by red rashes on the skin. While it is more common in children, it can affect individuals of all ages. The body rashes that appear can eventually turn into fluid-filled blisters. Other symptoms may include a high fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Chickenpox symptoms usually begin to appear approximately 10-21 days after exposure and are typically mild to moderate in severity. The most common way that chickenpox spreads is through the respiratory tract, but it can also spread through direct contact or contact with infected surfaces. Chickenpox is usually treatable at home, and medications such as fever reducers and itch-relieving treatments can be used to alleviate symptoms.

What is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox, medically known as varicella, is a medical condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is categorized as an infectious disease. Chickenpox causes red, itchy skin lesions, which can become inflamed as the disease progresses. Symptoms typically appear about 21 days after the person has been infected with the virus, and they can continue to spread to others up to 48 hours before the skin rashes begin. Although chickenpox is more commonly seen in children, it can affect individuals of any age. In terms of contagion, chickenpox is highly infectious and can spread quickly through the respiratory tract.

What Are the Symptoms of Chickenpox?

The most common symptom of chickenpox is the red skin rash, but a general feeling of discomfort usually begins to appear about two days before the rashes. The symptoms may be similar in both children and adults and are usually mild to moderate. Common symptoms of chickenpox may include:

• High fever
• Body aches
• Fatigue, weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Headache
• Irritability

Two days after the symptoms mentioned above, skin rashes begin to appear in three stages:

Stage 1:

• Painful, itchy skin blisters that can spread to the mouth and genital areas
• Rashes may be pink, red, or darker, depending on skin tone

Stage 2:

• The blisters fill with fluid and become extremely itchy

Stage 3:

• The blisters dry out and form scabs

Chickenpox symptoms usually remain mild and subside on their own within a few days. However, in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems, more severe symptoms may occur. Therefore, if any symptoms of chickenpox are present, it is important to consult a healthcare provider.

What Causes Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It occurs when a person is exposed to the chickenpox virus or comes into contact with an infected individual. The risk of transmission remains for up to 48 hours before the appearance of the blisters and until the rashes dry out. Chickenpox can be caused by the following:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Saliva
• Contact with the blisters

These factors are among the causes of chickenpox transmission. Some risk factors that may contribute to the development of chickenpox include:

• Being under 12 years old
• Attending or working in schools, daycare centers, or nursing homes
• Having a weakened immune system due to conditions like cancer or HIV
• Being pregnant
• Never having had chickenpox before
• Not being vaccinated

People who have had chickenpox or received the vaccine develop antibodies against the virus, making it rare for the infection to recur. However, the virus can remain dormant and, years later, cause herpes zoster (shingles).

How is Chickenpox Diagnosed?

Chickenpox is usually diagnosed during a clinical examination due to its distinctive skin rashes and itching. Since it is often accompanied by symptoms such as high fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite—similar to cold symptoms—doctors may also perform laboratory tests for differential diagnosis.

Chickenpox During Pregnancy

Chickenpox is generally a disease that affects young children and is rare in pregnant women. However, when it occurs during pregnancy, it can pose risks to both the mother and baby. Some potential risks include miscarriage, preterm birth, or low birth weight. Since pregnancy is a sensitive time, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible if chickenpox symptoms or exposure occur.

Treatment for Chickenpox

Chickenpox usually resolves on its own at home and does not have a specific treatment. The main treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms. Some methods to ease symptoms include:

• Reducing fever: High fever is a common symptom of chickenpox. To control fever, pain relievers and fever reducers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used, as advised by a doctor.
• Relieving itching: Scratching the rashes can make them more sensitive or spread them. Antihistamines and topical creams used for itching relief can be helpful.
• Increasing fluid intake: High fever and fluid-filled blisters can cause dehydration. Drinking plenty of water and homemade fruit juices can help prevent dehydration.
• Preventing inflammation: Scratching or bursting the rashes can cause inflammation. It's beneficial to wait for the rashes to dry and crust over, and to gently apply cool, damp cloths for relief.
• Other methods: Wearing thin, cotton, loose clothing and taking frequent lukewarm showers can help reduce symptoms. It is also beneficial to isolate and rest during the treatment period.

These methods may be helpful in treating chickenpox. However, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for optimal treatment.

How to Prevent Chickenpox

The most effective way to prevent chickenpox is through vaccination. The vaccine can protect against the varicella-zoster virus, reducing the severity and symptoms of the disease. However, since chickenpox is highly contagious, it may not always be possible to prevent it completely. Some preventive measures that may help avoid chickenpox include:

• Avoiding contact with infected individuals: Not directly contacting or being in the same environment as someone infected with chickenpox can help reduce the risk of transmission. If unavoidable, wearing protective masks, gloves, ventilating the area frequently, and disinfecting surfaces touched by the infected person are necessary.
• Paying attention to hygiene: Frequent handwashing can help protect against the chickenpox virus and other contagious diseases.
• Maintaining a strong immune system: A balanced and adequate diet, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, exercising, and reducing stress can help keep the immune system strong, which helps protect against chickenpox and other infectious diseases.
• Chickenpox vaccination: The chickenpox vaccine protects against the varicella-zoster virus and is used to reduce symptoms and complications. The vaccine is administered in two doses, typically at 12-15 months and again at 4-5 years of age, as part of the routine immunization schedule.

The methods mentioned above may help prevent chickenpox. However, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional regarding the chickenpox vaccine and other prevention methods.