Bulutong or chickenpox begins with a chickenpox rash. It is important to be able to identify chickenpox rash as the condition is highly contagious. Learn more about what chickenpox is and how to treat it.
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common childhood infection. However it can be serious in adults if left untreated.
It takes around 10 to 21 days from exposure to manifesting symptoms. It initially shows up as itchy chickenpox rashes which turns into fluid-filled blisters. During this time, the person with chickenpox is contagious and people should be mindful when in contact with them. It dries up and turns into scabs after 5 to 7 days.
Chickenpox Rash and Other Symptoms
Some of the signs and symptoms aside from chickenpox rash are the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Malaise or the feeling of tiredness
- Red rashes or papules which is the early sign of chickenpox
- Fluid-filled blisters or vesicles
- Scabs resulting from dried up blisters
Is That Chickenpox Rash? Causes of Chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus or VZV. It is highly contagious and can be passed to another person through direct contact with the sick individual, especially when exposed to the fluids inside the blisters. It can also be transmitted in the air through coughing or sneezing.
The same virus can also cause shingles, which affects mostly adults.
Risks and Complications
The risks and complications of chickenpox are mostly for when it occurs in adults. Most people who already had chickenpox become immune to the infection, but in some cases, the virus reactivates and causes shingles. People with weakened immune systems such as cancer patients, have a higher chance to get chickenpox.
Some of the common complications of chickenpox happen when it affects other organs in the body. In rare cases, it can even cause death.
- Scarring when scabs heal
- Pneumonia or lung infection
- Cellulitis or bacterial infection in the skin
- Encephalitis or inflammation of the brain
- Cerebellar ataxia or problems with muscular coordination
- Transverse myelitis or inflammation of the spinal cord
It is always best to consult a doctor to ensure proper treatment. Seek a doctor’s advice when taking care of children with chickenpox, as there are specific medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen which should not be given to children.
Most of the treatments suggested for chickenpox are to lessen discomfort. In normal cases, the following are advised:
- Bed rest
- Applying medicated lotion for itch relief
- Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Avoid scratching the blisters to prevent transmission of the virus and scarring
However, there is no need to wait to get a chickenpox rash. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get vaccinated as soon as possible. These are available for children and even for adults who have not encountered the infection yet.
Bulutong or chickenpox can be a bummer. It is highly contagious so it is best to avoid interaction with people if you have it. Avoid scratching the chickenpox rash as this can be transmitted to another person through contact with the fluid inside the blisters. Always consult with a doctor, whether it is for vaccination or for medication.
Learn more about Other Viral Infections here.