Chickenpox (Varicella) (cont.)
What are the treatments for chickenpox?
Most of the treatments for chickenpox are aimed at decreasing the symptoms, such as severe itching. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used to decrease the fevers and aches often associated with the initial presentation of the viral infection. Children should never be given
aspirin or aspirin-containing cold medications because of the risks for developing Reye's
syndrome (a severe acquired metabolic disease associated with liver and brain dysfunction and death).
Frequent oatmeal baths (Aveeno, etc.) can decrease the itching associated with chickenpox. In addition, soothing lotions and moisturizers such as
calamine lotion or any other similar over-the-counter preparation can be applied to the rash.
Benadryl or other antihistamines can be helpful in controlling the itching. Though Benadryl is available over the counter, other antihistamines can also be used. Always discuss these treatment options with your
health-care practitioner.
In addition to medications, there are also preventive measures that are needed. For young children, it is important to keep nails trimmed in order to minimize injury due to scratching and to control the risks for secondary bacterial infections.
Lastly, in some cases of chickenpox, acyclovir can be prescribed. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication which has been used to shorten the duration of the infection. This medication has only been shown to be affective if started within
one to two days of onset of the rash associated with chickenpox. Most commonly, this treatment is reserved for patients with other diagnoses which put them at risk for severe disease (severe skin diseases, immunodeficiency).
Next: What are the possible complications of chickenpox? »
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