Written by: Lucky Annem
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Lohi Pratti
Image Source: National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. When the virus continues to remain dormant in the sensory nerve and whenever the host immunity is weak, it gets reactivated, causing zoster (shingles). Varicella is characterized by an itchy rash of red, fluid-filled blisters that can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the face, scalp, and trunk. The blisters can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the face, scalp, chest, and back.
Varicella is most common in children, but adults can also get it. Varicella occurs most commonly in the winter and spring/in the coldest and driest months in the tropics. It was previously thought that the virus spreads mainly through airborne routes, but research has shown that most viral particles come from bullous skin lesions. Infected children without skin lesions/ crusted skin lesions are not contagious to others. Chickenpox is usually a mild illness, but it can be serious, particularly for people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns. Chickenpox in pregnant women, usually in the first months of pregnancy or at the time of delivery, is associated with more complications in the newborn. Treatment for chickenpox typically involves relieving symptoms, such as itching, and preventing complications. Over-the-counter medications, such as calamine lotion, can help to relieve itching. Chickenpox most commonly occurs in adolescence and is self-limiting and can be managed with supportive methods. Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), may also be used to relieve itching and help with sleep. The first infection in adulthood presents with more severe complications and takes a longer time to heal. So, oral antivirals are prescribed in adults more commonly than in children. Antiviral medications may be prescribed in certain cases to shorten the duration of symptoms. Vaccination is also available, it is given as a two-dose series and it is highly effective at preventing chickenpox and its complications. Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), or famciclovir (Famvir) may be prescribed in certain cases to shorten the duration of symptoms and to reduce the risk of complications. These medications are most effective when started early in the course of the illness.
How Oatmeal Can Help Symptoms
Colloidal oatmeal can be helpful in treating chickenpox because it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to soothe itching. Colloidal oat extracts have direct antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may explain why using colloidal oatmeal skin protectant lotion is good for dry and itchy skin. Colloidal oatmeal is also great to add to bathwater: it forms a milky solution that can be used to gently clean and soothe the skin. It's important to note that oatmeal can be a helpful complementary therapy for chickenpox, but it should not replace medical treatment. People with chickenpox should see a healthcare provider for personalized treatment recommendations. Also, it's important to avoid scratching the blisters, as this can lead to secondary bacterial infections and scarring; keeping the skin clean, dry, and moisturized is important to promote healing and prevent complications.
Shingles
As previously mentioned, chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same virus: the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). After a person has had chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the nervous system and later reactivate to cause shingles. The virus lies dormant in the spinal ganglia, a bundle of nerves that sits on either side of the spinal cord, and in this dormant state, the virus is not actively replicating or causing symptoms, but it can still be reactivated later in life, and cause shingles. The exact mechanism by which the virus remains dormant is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a complex interplay between the virus and the host's immune system. The virus is able to evade the immune system by entering the nerve cells and remaining in a latent state within the ganglia. The immune system is also thought to play a role in keeping the virus in check and preventing it from reactivating.
Shingles, also known as zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, often with blisters. Shingles usually affects the skin on one side of the body, typically the face or torso, and it is usually accompanied by pain, burning, and tingling. Other symptoms can include headache, fever, and fatigue. The reason why the virus reactivates and causes shingles is not fully understood, but it's believed that the virus is reactivated due to a decline in the immune system, which can occur due to aging, stress, certain medical conditions, or medications. Shingles (zoster) related complications are more common in people above the age of 50 years, cancer patients, and patients with suppressed immune systems. The most common complication post- shingles is neuralgia (pain in the more than 3 months post-rash). It's important to note that not everyone who has had chickenpox will develop shingles, but anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, including children.
There is currently no known way to completely prevent shingles from appearing, as the virus is already present in the body after a person has had chickenpox. However, there are several things that can be done to reduce the risk of developing shingles, and to help manage symptoms if shingles do occur:
Vaccination - The shingles vaccine (Zostavax) is recommended for people 60 years and older, and in some cases for people between 50 and 59. This vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of developing shingles and can also make the symptoms less severe if a person does develop shingles. While Zostavax is highly effective at preventing shingles, it may not provide complete protection. Even if you've been vaccinated, you can still develop shingles. But if you do, the symptoms are likely to be less severe.
Maintaining a healthy immune system - Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of shingles.
Reducing stress - Stress can weaken the immune system, so it's important to find ways to reduce stress, such as through yoga, meditation, or therapy.
Early treatment - If you develop symptoms of shingles, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help to shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the risk of complications.
Managing symptoms - Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to help manage pain, and cool compresses can be applied to the affected area to reduce itching and inflammation.
References:
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