Since chicken pox is typically a benign, self-limiting condition, the treatment options are usually focused on dealing with the symptoms and ensuring that the individual is comfortable. In some circumstances, the antiviral medication acyclovir can be utilized to manage chicken pox.
How to deal with the symptoms of chicken pox
Individuals with chicken pox usually have the viral-form, prodromal signs and symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. The symptoms can make the other signs of the disease such as itchiness feel even worse. Luckily, the viral symptoms linked with chicken pox can be managed using acetaminophen with doses determined by the weight of the individual.
Children must not be provided with aspirin or medications that contain aspirin for chicken pox or other viral conditions due to the risk for Reye’s syndrome.
Baths
Taking regular baths are oftentimes beneficial to alleviate the itchiness. Adding finely ground (colloidal) oatmeal can reduce the itchiness. The oatmeal baths can be prepared at home by simply grinding or blending the dry oatmeal into a fine powder and add approximately 2 cups to the bath water. You can also add 1/2-1 cup of baking soda to the bath water to minimize the itchiness.
Lotions
Calamine lotion is the commonly used lotion for chicken pox. This can be used or any similar over-the-counter preparation that is applied on the blisters to dry them out as well as soothe the skin.
Can I use antihistamines?
Both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines can be utilized to control the severe itchiness. Diphenhydramine is readily accessible over-the-counter while hydroxyzine is usually given by prescription. Both of these medications can cause drowsiness and useful at night time to help the individual sleep.
The other types of antihistamines such as cetirizine and loratidine can also be used to control the itchiness but could not cause drowsiness.
How to control scratching
Remember that scratching increases the risk for secondary bacterial infections. Those who have chicken pox must have their nails trimmed short. Additionally, small children should wear mittens to minimize the scratching.
Why is acyclovir used?
Acyclovir is an anti-viral medication that can be utilized to manage chicken pox. In simple cases, acyclovir can be used 5 times throughout the day which has been revealed to trigger brief periods of new lesion formation, thus fewer lesions promotes rapid healing. Take note that this usually occurs if the medication is started within 24-48 hours after the start of the rash.
The medication is also shown to reduce the rate of complications among healthy children who develop chicken pox. The oral acyclovir is usually recommended for children who have underlying skin disease such as eczema, adults who smoke and newborns since these groups face a higher risk for complications.