CHICKENPOX
TREATMENTS |
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In most cases, it is enough to keep
children comfortable while their own bodies fight the illness.
Oatmeal baths in lukewarm water provide a crusty, comforting coating
on the skin. An oral antihistamine can help to ease the itching, as
can topical lotions such as Calamine. Remember to trim the
fingernails short to reduce secondary infections and scarring.
Safe antiviral medicines have been developed. To be effective, they
usually must be started within the first 24 hours of the rash. For
most otherwise healthy children, the benefits of these medicines may
not outweigh the costs.
However, for those with skin conditions (such as eczema or recent
sunburn), lung conditions (such as asthma), or those who have
recently taken steroids, the antiviral medicines may be very
important. The same is true for adolescents and for children who
must take aspirin on an ongoing basis.
Some doctors also give antiviral medicines to people in the same
household who subsequently come down with chickenpox. Because of
their increased exposure, they would normally experience a more
severe case of chickenpox.
DO NOT USE ASPIRIN for someone who may have chickenpox. |
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| CHICKENPOX RELATED ITEMS |
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