The majority of cases resolve without complications in four to seven days.
This article covers self-care treatments and ways to ease chicken pox symptoms.
It also explains what to avoid and what to do for more severe or complicated cases.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Verywell / Emily Roberts
How Long Does Chickenpox Last?
The active stage of chickenpox lesions lasts about four to seven days.
Generally, this amounts to a period of one to two weeks.
Ellen Lindner / Verywell
Chickenpox is uncomfortable, and several treatment options exist.
These products typically come in pre-measured packets that you add to bath water.
It should not clog your drain as long as it is ground finely enough.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes for optimal benefits.
you’re able to add two ounces (60 mL) of baking soda per tub.
Aim to do this two or three times a day.
If you are drawing a bath for a young child, supervise them at all times.
Alternatively, baking soda paste is also effective in reducing itching.
Mix baking soda and water to make a paste and apply it to the affected areas.
It’s an effective itch-reliever when dabbed directly on the affected area and allowed to dry.
Calamine used to come only as a pink lotion.
It is now also available in clear forms.
There’s no need to rinse the tea off.
Gently pat the areas dry when you are done applying the tea.
Oral Antihistamines
An oral antihistamine may help with itching.
Avoid topic antihistamines as these can cause an allergic reaction.
A common antihistamine isBenedryl (diphenhydramine).
However, Benadryl can cause sleepiness as a side effect.
Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help relieve many of these symptoms.
Ranges for some age groups are on the packaging.
However, check in with your healthcare provider for the most accurate dosing.
Aspirin is associated with a condition calledReye’s syndromein kids.
This illness affects the liver and brain and can be life-threatening.
Also, avoid ibuprofen for pain relief with chickenpox.
While uncommon, it can cause a life-threatening bacterial skin infection.
Reducing the ability to scratch and ensuring nails aren’t sharp can help reduce skin damage.
A small child with chickenpox may not have the self-control to keep their hands off their rash.
Keep their fingernails trimmed and their hands very clean.
Adults, of course, can also benefit from this method.
Popsicles
Popsicles are a good option, especially for little kids withpainful mouth sores.
Consider non-acidic flavors of popsicles to relieve pain (e.g., avoid orange or lemon-flavored varieties).
For a healthier option, consider sucking on plain ice chips.
you’re able to also select popsicles that have no added sugar or are sugar-free.
Soft and Bland Food
Acidic, salty, and hard foods can all irritate mouth sores.
Instead, opt for soft,bland food.
Examples include bananas, noodles, and yogurt.
Prescription Chickenpox Treatments
For most people, simple home care measures and over-the-counter medications are sufficient.
However, prescription medications are available if needed.
Patients who may requireantiviral medicationinclude those who are:
Antivirals are effective in at-risk populations.
However, they should be started within 24 hours of symptom onset.
Antivirals have little to no effect on non-immunocompromised individuals.
Acicloviris one of the prescribed antivirals for chickenpox.
A common brand name is Zovirax.
Dosing and duration depend on age.
Antibiotics
Since chickenpox is a virus,antibioticswon’t help.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
VARIZIG is most effective if given within 96 hours after symptoms start.
If natural methods aren’t working, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and antihistamines may help reduce symptoms.
However, a healthcare provider may recommend antiviral medication or the injection Varizig to at-risk individuals.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox symptoms and complications.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Chickenpox.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to care for a child with chickenpox.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to treat chickenpox.
Nemours KidsHealth.Chickenpox (varicella).
Health Service Executive.Chickenpox (varicella zoster) antiviral prescribing.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital.Chickenpox.
