Chickenpox Treatment and Home Remedies

Chickenpox is a common viral infection, identified by the development of red, itchy blisters all over the body and caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is highly contagious, especially among children. It affects adults and children worldwide, with reports suggesting over 160 million people suffered from it last year. It is rarely fatal and usually does not result in complications in pregnant women.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms are itchy, fluid-filled blisters. They usually appear on the face or the chest before spreading all over the body. These blisters usually develop into scabs in 2-3 weeks. Other symptoms might include −

• fever

• tiredness

• loss of appetite

• headache

Treatment Options for Chickenpox

No cure has been discovered for chickenpox, as it usually gets cured. Several treatment options and home remedies can help manage the symptoms and speed up the healing process.

• Antiviral Medications − Antiviral medications are often prescribed to treat chickenpox in case of complications. These medications work by slowing down the virus's spread, which helps reduce the infection's severity and duration. Some commonly prescribed antiviral drugs for chickenpox include acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.

• Antihistamines − Antihistamines can help reduce the itching and discomfort associated with chickenpox. They block the release of histamines, certain types of chemicals that cause itching and inflammation. Some commonly used antihistamines for chickenpox include diphenhydramine, loratadine, and cetirizine.

• Calamine Lotion − Calamine lotion is a topical treatment that can help to soothe the itching and discomfort associated with chickenpox. It contains zinc oxide, which has a cooling effect on the skin and helps to reduce inflammation. Calamine lotion should be applied directly to the affected areas of the skin and allowed to dry.

• Cool Baths − Taking cool baths can help to reduce itching and discomfort. One should avoid using hot water since this can aggravate the skin and worsen the itching. Lukewarm water should be preferred, and a gentle soap can help clean the skin.

• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen − Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to reduce the fever and discomfort associated with chickenpox. These medications should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially in children.

Home Remedies for Chickenpox

• Oatmeal Baths − Oatmeal baths can help to soothe the skin and reduce the itching associated with chickenpox. To make an oatmeal bath, finely ground oatmeal should be added to lukewarm bathwater. The affected areas of the skin should be soaked in the oatmeal bath for 15-20 minutes, and the skin should be patted dry after the bath.

• Baking Soda − Baking soda helps in reducing the symptoms of itching and discomfort. It can be added to bathwater or applied directly to the affected areas of the skin. Add a half-cup of baking soda to lukewarm bathwater and relax to ease the inflammation.

• Honey − Honey has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothing the skin and prevent infection. It can be applied directly to the affected areas of the skin and should be left on for 15-20 minutes, after which it can be rinsed off.

• Neem Leaves − Neem leaves also have antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help reduce chickenpox's severity and duration. After boiling them in water, the solution can be used to sponge the affected areas of the skin.

• Coconut Oil − Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities that help soothe the skin and prevent infection. It can be applied directly to the affected areas of the skin and should be left on for several hours before being rinsed off.

Prevention of Chickenpox

• Avoid contact with infected individuals − Chickenpox is highly contagious and can be spread through contact with someone infected. Avoid contact with an infected person to prevent the pox from spreading until they fully recover.

• Wash your hands − Washing your hands regularly with soap and water can help prevent the spread of the virus. Regular self-care and maintaining hygiene are paramount in preventing the spread of the virus.

• Keep your environment clean − The virus can live on surfaces of tables or chairs for up to 48 hours, so it's important to clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus. The environment of any affected individual should be regularly and thoroughly cleaned.

• Boost your immune system − A healthy immune system can help fight off infections. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can all help boost your immune system.

• Stay home if you are sick − Individuals suffering from chickenpox are always advised to stay at home until they recover from restricting the spread of the virus.

Conclusion

Chickenpox is a widespread infection that most people suffer from at least once in their lifetime. Although no cure has been discovered yet, vaccines provide efficient protection from the virus that causes this infection. Self-care and hygiene should be prioritized in case someone develops chicken pox as it prevents the spread of the virus. Contact with others is highly discouraged, and self-isolation should be maintained to keep the spread of the infection in check.