Chickenpox (Varicella) - Home Treatment

Home Treatment

Most healthy children, teens, and adults with chickenpox (varicella) need only home treatment. However, all adults with chickenpox need to see a health professional.

If you have chickenpox, you do not need to stay in bed, but you should stay quiet and rest. You can use nonprescription medications to treat symptoms such as fever and itching. Check with your child's health professional before giving the child medication. Because of their small size, children are more sensitive than adults to the effects of some medications. Children also absorb medications differently than adults. Use a measuring spoon or medication cup to give medication to a child; do not guess the amount or use a regular table spoon.

Reduce itching

The chickenpox rash itches. Scratching the blisters may cause a skin infection or scars to form after the blisters heal. You can take steps at home to control itching from a chickenpox rash, such as taking oatmeal baths, applying cool compresses, and taking antihistamines by mouth.

Monitor fever

Fever is your body's normal response to infection. A higher-than-normal temperature kills bacteria and viruses that cause illness. Medications that reduce fever stop this natural process, so these medications should be used only as needed. If a child with chickenpox does not act sick or complain of symptoms, you may choose not to give medication for fever. Call your health professional if your child's fever lasts longer than 48 hours. You can help reduce a fever by using nonprescription medications and drinking cool liquids.

Prevent the spread of infection

Chickenpox can spread easily from one person to another. If you have frequent and close contact with a person infected with chickenpox, such as a family member, you may be exposed to a large amount of the virus. As a result, you may develop a more severe illness than the person who spread it. You also may be at greater risk for complications from the illness, especially if you have an impaired immune system. To prevent the spread of chickenpox, you or your child should stay home from work or school when ill.

Prevent complications of chickenpox

Most healthy children and adults recover from chickenpox without complications. See a health professional if you have any unusual, persistent, or worrisome symptoms.