Since it is a virus that causes chickenpox, the doctor won't prescribe antibiotics. However, antibiotics may be required if the sores become infected by bacteria. Which is pretty common among kids because they often scratch and pick at the blisters.
You can help relieve the itchiness, fever, and discomfort of chickenpox by:
- Using cool wet compresses or giving baths in cool or lukewarm water every 3 to 4 hours for the first few days. Oatmeal baths, available at the supermarket or pharmacy, can help to relieve itching. (Baths do not spread chickenpox.)
- Patting (not rubbing) the body dry.
- Putting calamine lotion on itchy areas (but don't use it on the face, especially near the eyes).
- Giving your child foods that are cold, soft, and bland because chickenpox in the mouth may make drinking or eating difficult. Avoid feeding your child anything highly acidic or especially salty, like orange juice or pretzels.
- Asking your doctor or pharmacist about pain-relieving creams to apply to sores in the genital area.
- Giving your child acetaminophen regularly to help relieve pain if your child has mouth blisters.
- Asking the doctor about using over-the-counter medication for itching.
Never use aspirin to reduce pain or fever in children with chickenpox because aspirin has been associated with the serious disease Reye syndrome, which can lead to liver failure and even death.
As much as possible, discourage kids from scratching. This can be difficult for them, so consider putting mittens or socks on your child's hands to prevent scratching during sleep. In addition, trim fingernails and keep them clean to help lessen the effects of scratching, including broken blisters and infection.
Most chickenpox infections require no special medical treatment.