Chicken Pox Treatment

Chickenpox (varicella) is an uncomfortable infection that causes itchy blisters and mild fever. Remedies to manage chickenpox symptoms include applying calamine lotion to the rash (except on the face); over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever; applying cool, wet compresses to the rash; and taking frequent, lukewarm baths (baking soda or oatmeal added to the bath may help relieve itching). Some doctors will also suggest antihistamines for the treatment of chickenpox.

Recently Answered

QWhat treatment will my child get for chickenpox?

1 Answer

A

A Dr. James D. Fortenberry, MD , Pediatrics, answered on behalf of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Your child’s doctor will talk with you about specific care for your child. Some general guidelines to follow include:
• Give acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Tempra®, Panadol®) if prescribed by your child’s doctor to control fever, aches, or pains. Follow the directions on the box carefully or ask your child’s doctor how much medicine to give.
- Do not give your child more than 5 doses of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period.
- Do not give acetaminophen to babies less than 3 months of age without a doctor's order
• DO NOT use aspirin because of the risk of Reyes Syndrome.
• DO NOT give your child ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®, Pediaprofen®).
• Give plenty of clear liquids.
• Infants under 12 months old should be offered Infalyte®, Pedialyte® or Ricelyte® or store brand as directed by your child’s doctor.
• Rest.
QHow can I relieve the itching from my child’s chickenpox?

1 Answer

A

A Dr. James D. Fortenberry, MD , Pediatrics, answered on behalf of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

•        Give him frequent lukewarm baths, (you may add baking soda or oatmeal to the bath water)
•        Apply calamine lotion to the rash
    -       DO NOT put calamine near the eyes or in the mouth
        -       DO NOT use creams containing diphenhydramine unless ordered by your child’s doctor
•        Give oral medicines if ordered by your child’s doctor
QIf my child has chickenpox, how can I make him more comfortable?

1 Answer

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A UCLA Health answered

Use cool, wet compresses or bathe your child in cool or lukewarm water or oatmeal products every three to four hours for the first few days, to help relieve itching.
Put calamine lotion on itchy areas (except on the face).
Serve foods that are cold, soft and bland, since mouth blisters may make drinking or eating difficult.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about pain-relieving creams.