Chicken pox is considered to be a normal, mild childhood illness that’s pretty much a rite of passage for most.
But that doesn’t mean we don’t worry, says Team MOLO
Waking up covered in spots is a rite of passage for pretty much all of us – and one that we’ll likely remember well from our own childhood. Who doesn’t have hazy memories of lying in front of the telly for hours, watching Kilroy with your mum, begging your for another ice lolly to soothe your spotty mouth and falling asleep in your duvet nest with Thundercats on in the background?
While often considered to be a normal, mild childhood illness it can make an unwelcome appearance (and somehow always seems to arrive at the exact moment that you really need to not be dealing with an spot invasion that ties you to the house, right?) – but how can you relieve the itch and help your kids when it inevitably strikes?
Faced with an itchy child at 7am, it’s normal to go into Google overdrive – hopefully that’s how you’ve found this article – but how can we really relieve the scratching, minimise the scarring and watch out for any unusual but slightly more concerning symptoms for this pretty run-of-the-mill illness that all kids will go through at some point or another?
Do Treat the Itch
The hallmark of chicken pox is its intensely itchy, spotty, blistery rash. Fortunately, there are tonnes of over-the-counter remedies to relieve the discomfort of the itching, from Calamine Lotion and Virasoothe, to Piriton. Yes – antihistamines, such as Piriton, can be a godsend for chicken pox scratchers – but always speak to your pharmacist or GP before giving any medication.
Don’t give Ibuprofen or Aspirin
Chicken pox can be painful, and often bring with it symptoms such as headache, sore throat and a temperature. Offering paracetamol/ Calpol (ensure to follow dosage guidelines) will help to relieve pain – but it’s important to avoid ibuprofen and aspirin when dealing with chicken pox.
Ibuprofen has been linked to severe skin infections in chickenpox cases, and aspirin shouldn’t be given to children as it can cause a condition called Reye’s syndrome, that affects the liver and brain.
Do drink plenty of fluids
When kids get sick, they often don’t feel like eating and drinking – but maintaining fluid intake is important. Encourage regular sips of water throughout the day – if you are concerned that little ones aren’t drinking enough, try adding a splash of juice or even using a calpol syringe to offer water. If the pox-spots have spread to the mouth, it can make drinking and eating uncomfortable, so offering ice lollies can be a cooling and soothing alternative that helps keep fluid intake up.
Don’t Scratch
This is the hardest one – but scratching can lead to scarring and even secondary infections. Trim nails, and for little ones, you could try to cover hands with mittens, or even socks to prevent them from scratching. Teach older ones to scratch ‘around’ the spot if desperate, or gently patting the itchy areas to relieve the worst of the itch.
Do take a soothing bath (and add oats!)
Baths can soothe the chicken pox itch, and provide relaxation and soothe temperatures. Adding oats to the bath can help soothe the skin, too – simply cut the bottom off a pair of tights, and tie to the faucet to allow the water to run through the oats and create a milky bath that’s wonderfully soothing on the itch.
Don’t share towels and bedding
Chickenpox is super super contagious to anyone who hasn’t had it before, so it’s important to avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, or bedding during the infectious period with siblings or friends to help prevent the spread – especially if anyone has a compromised or vulnerable immunity.
Do encourage plenty of rest
Resting is important to allow the body to fight the virus and heal quickly. Get the duvet on the sofa, and make a little nest in front of the telly – or Creating a comfortable resting environment with soft, breathable bedding can aid in better sleep, which is essential for recovery. Applying cooling lotions before bedtime may also help reduce itching, promoting a more restful night.
Don’t Send Children to School or Nursery
Again, because the virus is so contagious it’s important to keep kids at home. The general guideline is to wait until all chickenpox spots have crusted over, which typically takes about five days from the onset of the rash but may be up to 10 days. Make sure to let the school know of the virus, and keep in touch as per their policy.
Do trust your instinct and see your GP if needed
Chicken pox is a common and usually mild virus and won’t require medical advice – but if you feel that something isn’t quite right, or suspect a secondary infection don’t delay in seeking an appointment. Any increase in redness, warmth, swelling or pus should be checked over. You should also see your GP if they have a weakened immune system.
Additionally, if the individual experiences a persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.
Do Keep the Room Cool
Cool air can help reduce the itch, so opening a window slightly can be a welcome relief. Wearing loose, breathable clothing can help to prevent overheating too, which can cause more itching and prickly skin.
Don’t Use Harsh Soaps or Lotions
Avoid products that contain strong fragrances or chemicals, as they can irritate the skin further. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free soaps and lotions designed for sensitive skin to maintain comfort during the healing process.
Do Seek Support Yourself
We might know that Chicken Pox is one of those things, but if your kids are really suffering with an ‘everywhere’ rash and feeling a bit miserable, it can be tough going – especially if you are worried, too. Sharing the load can help, and The Motherload Community is always here for support and advice (and to keep you smiling, as well!) Not a member yet? Don’t worry – it’s free and you can join the MOLOs (that’s MOtherLOaders) here.
For further information, read the NHS information page for Chicken Pox