Symptoms and Treatment of Chickenpox

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on March 18, 2025
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Chickenpox is primarily caused by an infection with the varicella-zoster virus, and the disease is generally transmitted through the respiratory tract.

At the onset of the disease, red papules appear on the body, face, or scalp, which gradually develop into small vesicles. As the vesicles grow, they feel itchy. Scratching them can break the vesicles, leading to oozing and crusting.

As the condition progresses, it can peak within two to three days, presenting with widespread vesicles throughout the body. In such cases, antiviral treatment should be promptly administered, such as acyclovir tablets or valacyclovir dispersible tablets. These can be combined with traditional Chinese antiviral medications, such as Scutellaria root oral solution.

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When children develop hives, the rash looks like chickenpox, but these two are completely different diseases. With chickenpox, fever usually occurs after the onset of the disease, and the oral mucosa can also be easily damaged. On the other hand, hives typically appear on the limbs, neck, or buttocks, with noticeable itching that becomes more pronounced at night. The difference between hives and chickenpox lies in their differing causes of infection, which also affects where the symptoms manifest. It is advised that parents pay attention to these differences and treat them accordingly to minimize harm.

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Symptoms and Treatment of Chickenpox

The main symptoms of chickenpox include a mild fever and rash, with some patients experiencing headaches, coughs, and other symptoms. Treatment primarily consists of general treatment, antiviral therapy, and treatment of complications.

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Symptoms and Treatment of Chickenpox in Children

Chickenpox is an acute, contagious, exanthematous disease caused by varicella-zoster virus infection. Before the rash appears, symptoms such as fever, discomfort, and loss of appetite may occur. The fever typically lasts about one day before the rash emerges. The rash initially appears on the head, face, and trunk with a centripetal distribution. The rash can present as macules, papules, vesicles, and crusts all appearing simultaneously. Rashes can also appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth and the genital area. The treatment for chickenpox involves symptomatic and supportive care, and antiviral medications may be used appropriately to protect the skin and prevent scratching.