What are the treatments for chickenpox?
Most of the treatments for chickenpox are aimed at decreasing the symptoms, such as severe itching. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used to decrease the fevers and aches often associated with the initial presentation of the viral infection. Children should never be given aspirin or aspirin-containing cold medications because of the risks for developing Reye’s syndrome (a severe acquired metabolic disease associated with liver and brain dysfunction and death). Frequent oatmeal baths (Aveeno, etc.) can decrease the itching associated with chickenpox. In addition, soothing lotions and moisturizers such as calamine lotion or any other similar over-the-counter preparation can be applied to the rash. Benadryl or other antihistamines can be helpful in controlling the itching. Though Benadryl is available over the counter, other antihistamines can also be used. Always discuss these treatment options with your health-care practitioner. In addition to medications, there are also preventive measur
