(HealthDay News) - Chickenpox is caused by a virus that most often affects children.
Symptoms, including the tell-tale itchy rash, usually go away without treatment. But there are steps you can take to help alleviate the discomfort.
The University of Maryland Medical Center offers these suggestions:
- Never give children aspirin to treat chickenpox symptoms, as it can trigger a very dangerous condition called Reye syndrome. Acetaminophen can be taken for pain.
- Take a lukewarm bath every few hours, or apply a cool compress to the skin. Try adding oatmeal to the bath to soothe irritated skin.
- After bathing, don't rub the skin with a towel, just pat it dry.
- Apply calamine lotion to the lesions, but avoid applying the lotion on the face.
- For painful mouth blisters, eat soft, mild and bland foods, and beverages.
- Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter itch- and pain-relieving creams.
