Chickenpox symptoms and stages
What is Chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a common viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, mostly affecting children, but it can occur at any age. The infection is highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact or through the air by coughing and sneezing. Chickenpox usually resolves on its own within 1 to 2 weeks, without the need for a GP visit. However, complications can arise in certain cases, particularly in adults or individuals with weakened immune systems.
How to Check if it’s Chickenpox
The primary symptom of chickenpox is an itchy, spotty rash that can appear anywhere on the body. Chickenpox progresses through three stages, but new spots can form while others are in different stages of healing.
Stage 1: Small Spots Appear
- Spots can form anywhere on the body, including inside the mouth and around the genitals, which may be painful.
- Spots may spread across a larger area or remain in a smaller region.
- Spots can appear red, pink, darker, or the same color as the surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone.
- On brown and black skin, spots may be harder to see.
Stage 2: Spots Become Blisters
- Spots fill with fluid, becoming blisters.
- The blisters are extremely itchy and may burst.
Stage 3: Blisters Become Scabs
- Blisters will eventually form scabs.
- Some scabs will be flaky, while others may leak fluid.
Other Symptoms of Chickenpox
In addition to the rash, you might experience the following symptoms either before or after the rash appears:
- A high temperature (fever)
- Aches and pains, feeling generally unwell
- Loss of appetite
The symptoms can make children feel miserable, even if they only have a few spots. In adults, chickenpox can be more severe, often causing more spots and a higher fever for a longer period.
Is it Chickenpox?
In some cases, it can be difficult to tell whether it’s chickenpox or another illness. If you or your child develops an itchy, spotty rash along with a fever, it is likely chickenpox. However, consult your GP if you are unsure or if you are worried about the symptoms.
How Chickenpox Spreads
Chickenpox is highly contagious and can spread easily. It can be caught by being in the same room as someone infected or through direct contact with the fluid from their blisters.
When Can Chickenpox Spread?
- You can spread chickenpox from two days before your spots appear until they have all formed scabs. This usually takes about five days after the first spots appeared.
How Soon Do Symptoms Appear After Infection?
- After exposure to chickenpox, it can take 1 to 3 weeks for the rash to appear.
Chickenpox in Pregnancy
Most people contract chickenpox during childhood, so it’s rare for pregnant individuals to catch it. However, if you do develop chickenpox during pregnancy, there is a small risk that the baby may become very ill after birth. It’s important to contact medical services if you have never had chickenpox and believe you’ve been exposed to the virus during pregnancy.
The Chickenpox Vaccine
The chickenpox vaccine is available on the NHS for people who are at high risk of spreading the virus to individuals with weakened immune systems. For example, a child may be vaccinated if one of their parents is undergoing chemotherapy. Additionally, the vaccine is available for purchase at some private clinics or travel clinics, typically costing between £120 and £200.
Shingles and Chickenpox
While you cannot catch shingles from someone with chickenpox, it is possible to catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you have not had chickenpox before.
After you recover from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles. Shingles often occurs when the immune system is weakened due to stress, certain medical conditions, or treatments like chemotherapy.
How to Care for Chickenpox
Chickenpox usually improves on its own within 1 to 2 weeks. However, there are several things you can do to alleviate the symptoms:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to prevent dehydration.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower a high temperature and reduce discomfort.
- For children, ensure any medicine you give them is appropriate for their age. Always check the packaging or ask your pharmacist or GP for advice.
- Reduce itching by applying soothing lotions like calamine lotion, or use antihistamine medications if recommended by a healthcare provider.
- Keep fingernails short to avoid skin damage from scratching, which can lead to infection.
- Use cotton wool soaked in warm water to gently clean crusts from the eyes.
When to See a Doctor
Although chickenpox usually resolves on its own, see a doctor if:
- Your symptoms last longer than two weeks.
- The rash spreads to the eyes or causes breathing difficulties.
- There are signs of bacterial infection, such as the skin around the spots becoming red, swollen, or painful.
Conclusion: Managing and Preventing Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a common viral infection that most people experience during childhood. It’s important to recognize the symptoms and manage the infection through rest, fluids, and itch relief methods. In most cases, chickenpox resolves without complications, but certain individuals, such as pregnant women and immunocompromised people, should seek medical advice if exposed. The chickenpox vaccine is a valuable tool in preventing the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable individuals.
Request your Appointment by clicking on the picture below.
