Chickenpox: Controlling the itch
Introduction
When you or your child has chickenpox, the rash
that develops can be very uncomfortable.
Key points
- Although the severity of the rash varies from person to person, all people with chickenpox need to minimize scratching the rash to prevent:
- Infection from bacteria under your fingernails or on the skin of your hands.
- Scarring.
- You can treat itching from the chickenpox rash at home with baths and certain over-the-counter medicines and lotions.
- Check with your child's doctor before giving these medicines to your child.
What is the chickenpox rash?
Why it is important to avoid scratching the chickenpox rash
How you can reduce itching
Where to go from here
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| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: May 21, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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