CHICKENPOX

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR CHICKENPOX

  1. Cool Baths:  For itching, give cool baths for 10 minutes as often as needed (caution: avoid any chill).  Can add baking soda 2 oz. per tub. Baths don't spread the chickenpox.
  2. Calamine Lotion:  Apply calamine lotion to the chickenpox that itch the most or massage them with an ice cube for 10 minutes (don't use Caladryl because the Benadryl in it can be absorbed across the inflamed skin and cause side effects).
  3. Benadryl Medicine:  If itching becomes severe or interferes with sleep, give oral Benadryl (see Dosage table).
  4. Discourage Scratching:  Trim fingernails and wash hands frequently with an antibacterial soap to prevent impetigo. Discourage picking and scratching.
  5. Fever Medicine:  Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) for fever above 102°F (39°C). Never use aspirin (reason: risk of Reyes syndrome).  Also don't use ibuprofen (reason: may increase risk of severe strep infections).
  6. Soft Diet:  Offer a soft diet for painful mouth and throat ulcers.  For infants, give fluids by cup rather than bottle because the nipple can cause increased pain.
  7. Antacid for Mouth Pain:  For severe mouth ulcers in children over age 4, use 1 teaspoon of a liquid antacid as a mouth wash 4 times per day after meals. For younger children, put a few drops in the front of the mouth after meals.
  8. Painful Urination:  For females with painful vulva ulcers, apply petroleum jelly to the area as needed.  For severe pain, use a numbing ointment such as 2.5% xylocaine or 1% Nupercaine ointment (no prescription needed) 4 times per day.  This also works for males with painful pox on the tip of the penis.
  9. Contagiousness:  Your child can return to day care or school after all the sores have crusted over, usually day 6 or 7 of the rash.
  10. Expected Course:  Expect new chickenpox every day for 4 or 5 days.  Most children get 400 to 500 chickenpox.
  11. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Chickenpox look infected (draining pus, scabs become larger).
    • Gets any new chickenpox after day 6.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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