Chickenpox early stage. Symptoms of chickenpox development in children - photos of the initial stage. Principles of treatment for children

Chickenpox (also known as chickenpox) is a highly contagious infectious disease that primarily affects children. Chickenpox, the symptoms of which are characterized primarily by the appearance blistering rash, meanwhile, can also be diagnosed in adults, especially if the appropriate vaccinations have not been made.

general description

The causative agent of the disease is a virus belonging to the herpesvirus family (Varicella Zoster or otherwise - herpes zoster). This virus, finding itself in conditions external environment, dies quite quickly (literally within ten minutes). Taking into account this peculiarity of it, it can be said that the possibility of infection with chickenpox through those objects that were used by a sick person is excluded, as is the possibility of infection through third parties. Accordingly, heat, UV irradiation, sunlight and other types of exposure factors become detrimental to the virus.

For healthy children In most cases, chickenpox is not a serious disease. This, however, cannot be said about this disease in adults, pregnant women and newborn infants, in adolescents and in those individuals for whom immunodeficiency of one or another specific nature is relevant (in some cases this is possible after organ transplantation and with current HIV infection, much more often - with reduced immunity, against the background of acclimatization or after serious stress). What is noteworthy is that with immunodeficiency, situations are possible even with re-infection chickenpox.

The chickenpox rash heals without leaving a trace, because the skin lesions of the rash spread without affecting the epidermal layer. Meanwhile, scratching the rash (damage to the germ layer) can cause the formation of an atrophic scar (scars).

A person with chickenpox acts as a source of infection; he, in turn, is an epidemiological danger from the end of the incubation period until the moment in the course of the disease, during which the crusts begin to fall off. The pathogen spreads by airborne droplets, children from six months to seven years are most susceptible to the disease. And although chickenpox, as we have already noted, also occurs in adults, the incidence among them is not so frequent, which is mainly explained by the fact that they usually suffer from this disease in childhood.

Regarding susceptibility to chickenpox, an absolute figure is indicated, that is, 100%. Patients with this disease become contagious within 24 hours before the rash appears, after which they remain so for a period of five days after the last element of the rash characteristic of this disease is registered on the skin. Isolation of the virus in environment occurs through the contents of blisters that appear on the mucous membranes and skin of a sick person. Already the flow of air ensures the spread of infection over significant distances with subsequent infection, which is possible even as a result of minor fleeting contact with it.

The greatest activity in epidemiological terms is observed during the autumn/winter period; the increase in incidence also increases within the period every 4-6 years. Most often, children aged 5-9 years get sick; newborns at 2-3 months of life rarely get sick, which is due to the presence of maternal antibodies.

Features of the course of the disease

The mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. The course of chickenpox can be divided into several main stages.

• Infection, incubation period. The virus enters the body with its parallel fixation within the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract while simultaneously accumulating here and multiplying. Chickenpox, whose incubation period (there are no symptoms at this stage) lasts about two weeks, is also characterized by the non-infectivity of the sick person.
• The first symptoms of chickenpox. There is a gradual penetration of the chickenpox virus into the blood, after which, when a sufficient amount of it is reached in it, a reaction is formed from the immune system of the body itself to the foreign invasion. This period may be accompanied by fever, headache and weakness, as well as pain in the lumbar region. As for the main symptom of the disease, which manifests itself, as we have already identified initially, in the form of a rash, it is too early to talk about it within the period under review. The duration of the first symptoms of chickenpox is about 1-2 days, and it is from this time, that is, after the end of the incubation period and from the moment of transition to the period of the first symptoms, that the sick person becomes infectious to others.
• Acute (primary) stage. The blood flow ensures that the virus reaches its main targets in the form of nerve and skin cells. The nerves are not yet affected, only Varicella Zoster is consolidated in the area spinal cord(more precisely, its roots). As for the skin, here the symptoms are already making themselves felt, that is, a characteristic rash appears, which occurs periodically, over the next few days (up to a week). IN in this case the rash acts as a manifestation of the body’s reaction to the activity that the chickenpox virus carries out in it when it is concentrated within the skin. Much less often, the rash with chickenpox at this stage manifests itself in a subtle or unnoticeable manner, due to which diagnosing the disease is greatly complicated. Here, similar to the previous stage, the patient is still infectious to others.
• Recovery stage. At in good condition immune system of a patient with chickenpox, the rashes characteristic of it disappear after about 3-7 days. The overall state of health noticeably improves, and the previous, acute stage ends. Accordingly, with its completion, a period begins in which the patient becomes non-infectious to others, although the virus, due to its attachment in the nerve cells, remains in them forever.
• Acute (secondary) stage. This stage is relevant in a situation where the patient’s immunity is weakened, as well as in situations in which the nervous system is stimulated (which is also possible against the background of frequent stress) - here the chickenpox virus manifests itself again. The places where the rashes will be concentrated this time depend on the nerve that is most affected. In most cases this includes the stomach, axillary region, due to which, by the way, the disease is already defined as “herpes zoster” (or a synonym - herpes zoster). It is noteworthy that for this stage the occurrence of a rash is not necessary, due to which the symptoms are limited only to the appearance pain along the course of the affected nerve (this course is especially common in elderly patients). During the period of manifestation of skin rashes, the patient, similar to chickenpox, is contagious to the environment.

Chickenpox: classification

In accordance with the characteristics of the course, the following classification of the disease is accepted and, accordingly, applicable:

• According to the mechanism of occurrence, chickenpox can be:
• congenital;
• acquired.
• According to the form:
• typical shape;
• atypical form:
• rudimentary atypical form;
• gangrenous form;
• hemorrhagic form;
• visceral form.
• In accordance with the degree of severity characterizing the course of chickenpox:
• mild degree heaviness;
• medium-heavy;
• heavy.
• In accordance with the characteristics inherent in the course of the disease:
• smooth course (no complications);
• course with complications;
• course in combination with a mixed infection.

Chickenpox: symptoms

Acquired chickenpox occurs in accordance with the following terms for each relevant period:

• incubation period - duration within 11-21 days (mainly, as we have already noted, the incubation period for chickenpox is two weeks, respectively, 14 days);
• prodromal period – within a day;
• the period of the height of the disease (appearance of a rash) – from 3-4 days or longer;
• convalescence – within a period of 1-3 weeks.

The prodromal period following the incubation period, which is important to note, does not occur in all patients. Its manifestations, in particular, boil down to elevated temperature (within the subfebrile range of 37-37.5 degrees), as well as the appearance of some malaise and a rash reminiscent of a rash with measles or a rash with scarlet fever (it persists for several hours).

Following the symptoms of the prodromal period or in a state of normal health (in the absence of this period), an increase in temperature is noted in the range of 37.5-39 with a gradual deterioration general well-being and with the appearance of a characteristic rash in the patient. Initially, such a rash resembles a spot, which after a few hours transforms into a papule, and after that into a vesicle. Thus, small bubbles are obtained, the diameter of which is about 0.2-0.5 cm, they are located within the base that has not undergone infiltration, surrounded by a rim in the form of redness, the wall of these bubbles is externally tense. The vesicles have a single-chamber appearance, within the first day they resemble dew drops, but by the second day their contents become cloudy, after another day or two the bubbles dry out and simultaneously transform into a crust, which disappears within 1-3 weeks. After the crusts separate from the skin, either a depigmented spot or pigmentation remains on it. In the vast majority of cases, scars, as the final stage after a rash, do not remain on the skin.

The process of rash is not simultaneous; rather, its frequency can be distinguished over a period of several days. Because of this pattern of rash, the skin with chickenpox has elements located on various stages development (which is defined as false polymorphism). For clear example chickenpox (symptoms) – in the photo below, with the appropriate indication skin lesions with her.

Chickenpox rash (photo 1)

Chickenpox rash (photo 2)

Regarding the area of ​​concentration, a predominant localization can be identified on the face and torso, in the scalp and on the extremities. There is also a tendency to concentrate predominantly in those places where the skin is most susceptible to irritation, as well as in places with the greatest pressure on it. As a symptom accompanying the rash, one can also note a slight itching and the appearance of the rash itself in the mucous membranes, which implies damage to the genital organs, larynx, conjunctiva, and cornea. The rash blisters quickly soften and ulcerate; after about 5 days, the erosions heal.

Throughout the entire period during which the rash appears, patients experience fever (for several days), intoxication is moderate. The possibility of developing lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) cannot be ruled out.

Now let us dwell on the features of the course of atypical forms of chickenpox.

Vestigial form The disease develops in children who have specific residual immunity, as well as in those patients who received blood products or immunoglobulin during the incubation period. This form is generally characterized mild course. The rash manifests itself in the form of a sparse type of maculopapular formations, and these formations do not always transform into vesicles. The course of the disease occurs when the patient’s temperature is normal, as well as when their general condition is satisfactory.

Hemorrhagic form acts as one of the most severe manifestations of chickenpox, which, in addition, is one of the most malignant in nature. The development of this form of the disease occurs in individuals with IDS (immunodeficiency syndrome), as well as in those individuals who received cytostatics and glucocorticoid hormones. It is also possible for a hemorrhagic form of chickenpox to appear in newborns. The disease is characterized by the appearance of high temperature and severe intoxication. In addition, multiple organ pathology develops in combination with hemorrhagic syndrome, which manifests itself in the form of hemorrhagic contents in the vesicles (bleeding in them), hemorrhages in the skin and tissue, in the mucous membranes and internal organs. Other bleeding also appears, namely from the nose and gastrointestinal tract, hemoptysis and hematuria (the appearance of blood in the urine). The form of the disease in question is also defined as fulminant purpura, and its main danger is that it can end in death.

Visceral form It is diagnosed primarily in premature children, newborns, as well as in children corresponding to the older age category with IDS (immunodeficiency syndrome) that is relevant for them. The course of this form is characterized by the severity of its manifestations, as well as long-term intoxication in combination with severe fever and profuse rash. The nervous system and internal organs are also affected, namely the kidneys, lungs, liver, pancreas, adrenal glands, endocardium, spleen, digestive tract etc. Often this form of the disease ends in death.

Gangrenous form is a relevant option, again, for patients with immunodeficiency syndrome, although it is diagnosed extremely rarely. Its main features are the manifestation of severe intoxication and, in general, a long course. Chickenpox in the gangrenous form manifests itself in the form of large blisters, on which a scab (a crust that usually covers wounds from abrasions, burns and similar skin lesions; it is formed from dead tissue, pus and clotted blood) quickly forms with an area of ​​necrosis (death). ). The falling off of the scab is accompanied by the simultaneous exposure of deep ulcers, and they heal at an extremely slow pace. Often the disease in this form occurs with a complication in the form of sepsis with subsequent death.

Chickenpox: symptoms in adults

Chickenpox in adults, as we have already noted, can develop if they did not have to deal with this disease in childhood. In addition, cases in which chickenpox develops against the background of a depressed state of the immune system cannot be excluded, which can be facilitated by a number of factors (organ transplantation, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, etc.), the disease manifests itself in these cases again and again. If infection occurs against the background of a less pronounced impact of external factors on the body (exacerbation stage chronic disease, stress, etc.), then activation of the virus occurs with manifestations inherent in herpes zoster.

So, let's focus on the symptoms. The disease, which for the most part occurs easily in childhood, in adults it manifests itself in at least moderate severity of clinical manifestations. After 20 years, severe forms of the disease, as well as complicated forms, are suffered by adults, regardless of their involvement in a specific age category, with the same frequency. We repeat that when immunodeficiency states, as well as if there are other concomitant diseases In chronic form, chickenpox manifests itself much more severely.

The duration of the incubation period, as in the general description of the disease, is about two weeks. The prodrome stage is accompanied by general infectious symptoms (weakness, aches, low-grade fever, headache). The first signs of chickenpox in adults often appear in the form of symptoms corresponding to cerebral edema, as well as symptoms indicating involvement of the peripheral nervous system in current processes. In particular, this may include sound and photophobia, nausea, vomiting (without relief after it), convulsive twitching noted in the skeletal muscles, weakness, and impaired coordination of movements.

The appearance of pink spots on the skin characterizes the beginning of the period of rashes, which determines the following symptoms of chickenpox for adults:

• A rash that appears on the skin profusely and indicates by the 5th day the relevance of false polymorphism, to which, nevertheless, it corresponds.
• Enanthems appear on the mucous membranes (genital organs, mouth, respiratory tract).
• Repeated rashes appear in waves, which lasts for 10 days.
• At the height of the rash that is relevant to the disease, an increase in body temperature of up to 40 degrees is noted.
• The symptoms of intoxication are extremely pronounced.
• Complications in adults are determined by the relevance of the pyogenic flora. Pustules are formed from the vesicles, characterized by the duration of weeping. Opening them leads to the exposure of deep ulcers, their healing, in turn, is accompanied by the appearance of scars. If the level of functioning of the body’s immune system is inadequate, the possibility of developing phlegmon, abscesses and fasciitis cannot be excluded, which can almost lead to sepsis or a necrotic form of this disease.
• Chickenpox often occurs in atypical form(we examined their varieties earlier, they also correspond to the manifestation in the picture of the disease in adults).

Chickenpox in infants: symptoms

As we already noted initially, chickenpox in children and the symptoms characteristic of it appear extremely rarely before three months of their life, which is explained by their receipt of maternal antibodies through the transplacental route. Meanwhile, in the absence of a mother's history of chickenpox in the past, past illness, the production of corresponding antibodies does not occur, therefore, in fact, their transmission does not occur. Accordingly, contact with infection leads to the fact that the child may become ill almost immediately after birth. If the indicated picture of the possible acquisition of the disease corresponds, it, in turn, is characterized by some features, which we will also highlight:

• frequent detection of a prodrome period with chickenpox, lasting for a period of 2-4 days, accompanied by severe symptoms of intoxication;
• within the period during which rashes characteristic of the disease appear, it is also noted elevated temperature and symptoms of intoxication expressed in manifestations (which also consists of cerebral manifestations);
• the rashes that appear are often abundant in nature, the evolution of the elements shows slowness, and the contents in the vesicles are often hemorrhagic;
• the duration of the rash period is about 7-9 days;
• Bacterial complications are often associated with the disease;
• the course of the disease in often cases is characterized by its own severity;
• the course of the disease cannot be excluded in accordance with the scenario inherent in its visceral form, hemorrhagic form or gangrenous form.

It is also worthwhile to dwell separately on such a form of the disease as intrauterine chicken pox, and in particular on related clinical forms such as embryofetopathy (which is defined as congenital chickenpox syndrome) and the neonatal form of chickenpox.

Intrauterine chickenpox. When considering statistics regarding current morbidity, we can highlight indicators of 5 cases per 10,000 for pregnant women. In case of infection of the fetus within the first four months of pregnancy, subsequently, accordingly, the clinic inherent in the specified syndrome appears congenital form diseases.

Embryophetopathy during the first trimester in part possible risk occurs in 2% of cases, during the second trimester - in 0.4% of cases. The congenital form of the disease is characterized by the presence of skin pathology in the form of areas of scarring with their clear distribution into multiple types of scarification, dermatomas, and hypopigmentation. Pathologies of the central nervous system, bones, eyes, intestines, and urinary system are also relevant; intrauterine growth retardation, as well as retardation in psychomotor development, cannot be ruled out.

During the first months of a newborn’s life, the mortality rate in this case is about 25%, but if the infection occurred after the 20th week of pregnancy, embryofetopathy does not develop, congenital chickenpox in this case becomes latent (hidden, without manifestations in the form of noticeable symptoms and signs pointing to it). Subsequently, over the next few months, the child may experience symptoms consistent with the manifestations of herpes zoster.

Neonatal chickenpox is a disease in the form in which it manifests itself in the event of infection of the fetus during the last three weeks of pregnancy, during childbirth, or within the first 12 days from birth. Children whose mothers fell ill with chickenpox 5 days before birth or within the first 3 days after this experience symptoms of this disease by 5-10 days of life. Due to the absence of the corresponding antibodies in the body of such children, the course of the disease is characterized by significant severity, as well as the addition of pathological conditions indicating damage to internal organs (intestines, kidneys, heart, lungs, etc.). Hemorrhagic syndrome and complications are also added, as a result of which the picture of the disease is reduced to quite high rates mortality rate (it reaches about 30%).

In the event that a pregnant woman falls ill within 6-20 days before the onset of childbirth, chickenpox symptoms in the newborn appear immediately after birth. Considering the fact that in this case there was a transplacental transfer of antibodies from the mother, the course of the disease in the vast majority of cases is quite favorable.

Complications of chickenpox

Complications of the disease are caused by the generalization of the process, as well as damage to internal organs by the virus, which often occurs in combination with the addition of pathogenic microorganisms and disruption of adaptation mechanisms in the immune and endocrine systems.

Complications include the following:

• herpetic lesions affecting the respiratory system (laryngitis, tracheitis, pneumonia in combination with respiratory failure);
• pathological lesions associated with detoxification organs (nephritis, liver abscesses, hepatitis);
• lesions associated with the functions of the peripheral and central nervous systems (meningitis, encephalitis, cysts in the brain, cerebral edema, cerebellar ataxia, polyradiculoneuritis, paresis and muscle paralysis);
• damage to blood vessels, heart (myocarditis, hemorrhagic syndrome, thrombophlebitis, arteritis, etc.);
• pathologies of muscles and joints (fasciitis, myositis, arthritis, etc.).

Quite often, meningoencephalitis and encephalitis develop from the listed pathologies. Complications of a neurological scale are caused by both the direct impact of the virus and the immune response produced by the body, against the background of which, in turn, demyelination of nerve fibers occurs.

Encephalitis often develops during the period of height of rashes or the period of convalescence. According to the first option, encephalitis develops due to the virus entering the central nervous system (hematogenous or axonal routes), which determines the severity of the subsequent infectious process. With febrile fever, cerebral symptoms develop (convulsions, headache, impaired consciousness, vomiting); some patients experience meningeal signs. In the future, focal symptoms in combination with hemiparesis are noted in the foreground.

If we're talking about about encephalitis within the period of convalescence (in days 5-14 of the course of the disease), then its relevance can be noted here, regardless of the specific form of severity of the disease. Cerebellitis predominantly develops with general cerebral symptoms (vomiting, headache and lethargy), as well as with symptoms accompanying the condition lesions of the cerebellum (which manifests itself in the form of ataxia, muscle hypotonia, nystagmus, tremor). Meningeal symptoms are absent or mild.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the disease, data obtained from epidemiological analysis, as well as from laboratory and clinical studies. Laboratory diagnostics is based on the following:

• virological methods - through their use, the virus is isolated from tissue cultures; in addition, it is also isolated from the fluid of blisters in rashes and damaged exfoliating skin;
• express diagnostic methods - first of all, consist of an immunofluorescence reaction, which makes it possible to detect viral antigens through smears or scrapings taken from the bases of vesicular formations;
• molecular genetic methods - involve the isolation of DNA belonging to the virus from vesicular fluid, cerebrospinal fluid and blood, which involves the use of polymerase chain reaction(or abbreviated PCR).
• serological methods - in particular, ELISA, through the implementation of which antibodies of certain classes are determined.

Chickenpox treatment

To treat chickenpox, hospitalization is necessary in severe forms of its course, as well as in cases in which complications develop (myelopathy, encephalitis, nephritis, meningoencephalitis, etc.). In other cases, treatment is carried out at home.

Bed rest is prescribed for all patients: the usual course of the disease determines a period of 3-5 days for this; the course of the disease with complications requires an individual determination of this period based on the severity of the patient’s condition. Patients also require good care, aimed at the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes, which will provide the opportunity to prevent complications. Daily baths and changes of linen are recommended. Vesicles are processed using a 1% solution of brilliant green.

It is also necessary to rinse your mouth after eating using a disinfectant solution based on a decoction of chamomile, furatsilin or calendula; you can also use ordinary boiled water. To wash the eyes, a solution of furatsilin is used; the appearance of purulent discharge requires the use of drops of sodium sulfacyl (20-30%).

In addition, etiotropic therapy based on the following components is also relevant.

• Viricidal drugs

These include inosine pranobex and abnormal nucleosides (the drugs acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir). The effectiveness of acyclovir is noted only at the beginning of treatment, within the first day from the moment the patient develops a rash. Mild and moderate forms of the disease require its administration for a period of 7-10 days; for the treatment of severe forms, the drug is administered by intravenous drip for a period of 7-10 days, after which the treatment regimen with the drug changes to its usual use (internally). Acyclovir ointment must be applied to the affected areas of the skin, and its effectiveness is also determined when applied to conjunctivitis. Children over 12 years old can be prescribed valacyclovir, adolescents over 17 years old, and adults can be prescribed famciclovir. Inosine has a suppressive effect on the varicella zoster virus, as well as a number of other viruses; in addition, it has an immunomodulatory effect.

• Interferon medications

Mild and moderate forms of the disease involve internal use or in the form rectal suppositories(drugs Viferon, Kipferon, Genferon light). Viferon suppositories are prescribed one twice a day for a period of 5 to 10 days. Children under 7 years old are prescribed Viferon-1, from 7 years old - Viferon-2. Viferon ointment is used for affected areas of the skin.

• Interferon inducers

They are used in the treatment of mild/moderate forms of the disease (drugs neovir, poludan, kagocel, etc.). Poludanum, etc. are used as topical preparations.

• Immunoglobulins

These types of drugs are necessary in the treatment of moderate/severe forms of the disease.

• Antibiotics

Prescribed in case of development of such forms of chickenpox as bullous, pustular or gangrenous. In addition, the use of antibiotics is also important against the background of the development of bacterial complications.

IN pathogenetic therapy chickenpox for mild/moderate forms of the disease, drink plenty of fluids; for severe/complicated forms, intravenous drip administration of glucose-saline solutions is used. Taking into account the monitoring of the immunogram, immunocorrective drugs and cytokine drugs are prescribed. Additionally, vitamin-mineral complexes and multivitamins, enterosorbents and probiotics are prescribed, and, if appropriate, medications are prescribed metabolic action, expectorants and mucolytics, antihistamines and protease inhibitors. In case of severe itching, first generation antihistamines (diazolin, tavegil, suprastin) are recommended. The use of glucocorticoids is relevant only in the development of encephalitis.

To eliminate symptoms, antipyretic drugs (ibuprofen, paracetamol) are used. acetylsalicylic acid unacceptable, because this can lead to the development of Reye's syndrome in patients!

Urticaria is one of the most common diseases treated by an allergist. In general, the term urticaria refers to a number of specific diseases characterized by different specific nature of occurrence, but manifesting themselves in the same way. Urticaria, the symptoms of which manifest themselves in the form of a cluster of blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, reminiscent of a burn received when the skin is exposed to nettles, is so called for this reason.

Migraine is a fairly common neurological disease accompanied by severe paroxysmal headache. Migraine, the symptoms of which are pain, concentrated on one side of the head mainly in the area of ​​the eyes, temples and forehead, nausea, and in some cases vomiting, occurs without reference to brain tumors, stroke and serious head injuries, although and may indicate the relevance of the development of certain pathologies.

Herpes is viral disease, manifested in the form of characteristic rashes (bubbles), grouped together and localized in the mucous membranes and on the skin. Herpes, the symptoms of which arise against the background of exposure to herpes viruses, most often occurs in the form of a labial (more precisely, labial) infection; its manifestations are traditionally defined as “colds on the lips.” There are other forms of the disease, for example, genital herpes (with predominant defeat genital organs), as well as forms in which a variety of areas are affected.

In addition, a large percentage of the incidence of chickenpox in children is due to the fact that the latent period of the disease is 14-21 days, due to which the virus has time to spread and cover all children in the group or kindergarten. The chickenpox virus ceases to act until the last rash ends, that is, the virus stops being transmitted when the last blisters begin to heal.

How can you get infected?

The virus is transmitted from person to person by airborne droplets. Chickenpox penetrates through mucous membranes oral cavity, respiratory tract, eyes deep into the body.

The chickenpox virus is very persistent and spreads quickly. He has the ability to penetrate even into other rooms and neighboring apartments. This is why children in groups become infected with chickenpox so easily. Just one child in a group who becomes infected with chickenpox immediately becomes dangerous for the children of the entire institution.

Chickenpox incubation period

Chickenpox does not manifest itself in any way during the incubation period, that is, the first 7–21 days. Children remain active, cheerful, cheerful, no different from their healthy peers. However, as soon as the incubation period expires, the child’s first symptoms suddenly begin to appear. And then, chickenpox, its symptoms, leave no doubt in the parents’ minds that the child has chickenpox and not some other disease.

First signs

The child appears:

• high temperature (up to 39.5°C),
• feverish reaction;
• moderate intensity headache;
• pain in abdominal area(not always);
• general malaise;
• signs of intoxication (possible nausea and vomiting);

The first signs of chickenpox in children, as a rule, are indistinguishable from “normal” ARVI. The main symptom of chickenpox is a characteristic rash (initially small pink spots, and then - bubbles with a clear liquid).

Symptoms and signs of chickenpox in children

Basically, chickenpox is characterized by a typical, uniform course in all children, with rare exceptions, so the following main symptoms of this disease can be identified (see photo):

1. Sudden onset of the disease with the development of intoxication and a sharp increase in temperature.
2. Almost simultaneous appearance on the skin, sometimes on mucous membranes, typical vesicular elements.
3. An undulating course of the disease process with periodic additions of papulovesicles.
4. Increase in body temperature with each new wave of rash.
5. The formation of crusts on the surface of the bubbles, which subsequently do not leave any scars after recovery.

All stages of chickenpox in children follow each other sequentially and are characterized by certain typical symptoms.

1. The first stage of chickenpox and a child is the incubation period, which covers the time from the penetration of varicella-zoster into the baby’s body until the immediate manifestation of the first clinical symptoms. Its duration is considered to be from a minimum of 5 to a maximum of 21 days, however, on average it can last about 2 weeks. At this time, varicella-zoster actively multiplies and also accumulates in the mucous membranes of the oropharynx and nasal cavity, and is then able to overcome all protective barriers and penetrate the blood. At this moment, the very first sign of chickenpox in children develops: the appearance of a rash on the body, accompanied by a high temperature.
2. The stage accompanied by the symptoms described above is called the initial stage, but sometimes it is preceded by a so-called prodromal period, during which a rise in temperature, headaches, weakness, and lethargy are recorded. The temperature with chickenpox in children sometimes reaches 40°C and above.
3. As a result of the penetration of the chickenpox virus into the skin, local swelling is formed and a period of rash occurs, which can last from just 2 days to 7 days or even more. It is characterized by the initial formation of a red spot, which quickly takes the form of a papule, then transforms into a vesicle, which subsequently becomes covered with a crust. Most often, the patient’s torso is first affected by the elements of the rash, then the arms, legs, and only after that they can be detected on the face and scalp. This process is also characterized by very disturbing itching, which causes serious discomfort. Along with the formation of the rash, there is an increase in lymph nodes, as well as the manifestation of symptoms of intoxication of the body.
4. The last stage of chickenpox in children is characterized by normalization of body temperature, falling off of crusts, and improvement of the patient’s well-being. At the site of the former pathological element, covered with a crust, brownish pigmentation remains at first, however, over time it disappears. The skin after chickenpox in children, in the absence of constant scratching of itchy elements, with careful treatment and prevention of infection, remains healthy and clean. The average duration from the moment the first signs appear to complete cleansing skin from crusts is about 3 weeks.

Chickenpox occurs extremely rarely in infants under 6 months of age, since the child is protected by antibodies received from the mother. If the disease is registered in a child under one year old, it proceeds quite easily. The temperature with chickenpox in children of this age is usually low, the period of rash is short, and the intoxication syndrome is practically not expressed. However, this applies to children born to mothers who had chickenpox as children. Otherwise, chickenpox in children under one year of age lasts quite a long time and is severe.

What does chickenpox look like in children: photo

We present to you a photo of chickenpox in children, both infants and older children. A chickenpox rash can appear on any part of the body, even on mucous membranes. The intensity of the rash, as you can see in the photo, can also vary.

Click to view photo

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Severity

Depending on the characteristics of its course in children, chickenpox is divided into three forms:

Chickenpox in infants

It must be remembered that any child over the age of six months can get chickenpox. In most cases, the course of the disease in infants is quite complex: such young children do not tolerate symptoms well, cannot complain and cannot take advice. As a result, they need more careful care and constant attention from the mother.

Chickenpox in newborns is characterized by the same symptoms, but in children younger age Chickenpox, which occurs in a particularly complex form, can cause serious harm to the body, affecting the development of internal organs. Treatment of chickenpox in infants should be carried out under the strict supervision of a qualified pediatrician.

You should try to ensure that the child does not tear off the scabs from drying out rashes, because This will only make it more itchy and increase the risk of re-infection. The child's hands need to be washed more often, since the causative virus may be present on the skin and under the nails. Nails should be cut short. It is recommended that your baby wear cotton gloves at night.

How to treat chickenpox in a child?

Since chickenpox is caused by a virus, it is useless to treat the disease with antibiotics. The doctor may prescribe antibacterial drugs in cases where the course of chickenpox is complicated by the addition of a secondary bacterial infection.

There is no specific treatment for this infection, but necessary measures measures aimed at alleviating the patient’s condition must be undertaken. If a child gets chickenpox, the parents' task will be to minimize unpleasant symptoms and alleviate the baby's condition. To do this, at home, you must fulfill the basic conditions necessary for a speedy recovery:

1. Observance of strict bed rest;
2. Frequent change of underwear and bed linen;
3. Reinforced drinking regime allowing to reduce intoxication;
4. Light dairy-vegetable diet.

At the first unfavorable symptoms, you should call a doctor at home, who will give the necessary advice on care and prescribe medications to alleviate the child’s condition. The most important point treatment during active phase is to eliminate severe itching. When a rash appears, the skin itches and itches, and parents need to ensure that the baby does not scratch the itchy areas. This will help avoid the addition of a secondary bacterial infection.

1. Blisters on the body should be treated several times a day with antiseptic solutions (green or colorless Castellani liquid). This will help prevent further distribution infections throughout the body and reduce the number of rashes. This treatment helps dry out the blisters and form a crust, speeding up recovery.
2. To relieve itching, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines(Suprastin, Diazolin, Diphenhydramine). These drugs effectively eliminate itching and have a mild sedative and sedative effect, which will help cope with sleep disorders. The attending physician will select the required dose and dosage regimen.
3. If a child has a high temperature, the doctor will prescribe antipyretics (Paracetamol, Nurofen, Efferalgan). It is not advisable to give aspirin to children under 10 years of age.

Drinking plenty of fluids (tea with lemon, compotes, juices, green and Herb tea), the liquid will remove toxins from the body. During illness, the child loses his appetite, but it is necessary to maintain his strength. A dairy-vegetable diet will help with this, which will provide the body essential vitamins and nutrients.

Severe forms of chickenpox affecting internal organs are treated in a hospital. Part complex therapy Antiherpetic drugs (Zovirx, Acyclovir) are necessarily included; immunoglobulin and interferon are used to treat the condition.

What to apply to chickenpox other than brilliant green?

You can smear chickenpox ulcers not only with the usual brilliant green. Doctors advise using antiseptics for this - for example, zinc ointment. The main thing is to do it very carefully. This ointment promotes wound healing, relieves itching, disinfects the skin and slightly dries out sores.

You can also use:

• fukortsin,
• fenistil,
• infagel,
• furatsilin
• manganese solution.

Folk remedies

There are various ways to get rid of itching due to chickenpox and in traditional medicine:

1. Place the patient in cool water every 4 hours, for 15 minutes. Dissolve half a glass of baking soda in water, or pour rolled oats into a sock, tie it, and put it in the bath.
2. Pour 200 grams of dry yarrow into 5 liters of water, leave for 3 hours, pour into the bath. Bath the patient for 15 minutes.
3. For itchy mouth, brew 20 grams of dry sage in 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes. Strain and rinse your mouth.
4. Boil 5 liters of water, cook 1 kilogram of barley in it, strain. Wipe the child with the broth, let it dry without wiping.

Is it possible to swim if you have chickenpox?

Contrary to popular misconceptions, you can and should swim when you have chicken rash. The main thing is to take a warm bath; the water should not be hot or cold. The baby should also walk in the fresh air, but avoid contact with other children. In such conditions, treatment will be more effective, and the patient will be able to avoid complications and other severe consequences of chickenpox.

How many days does a child have fever with chickenpox?

Very often, the temperature for this disease rises during the prodromal period - when preliminary symptoms appear. The increase in temperature may not be very critical - up to about 38 degrees, sometimes with a feeling of nausea and even vomiting.

The temperature may rise and fall slightly throughout the course of the disease - with each new rash on the baby's skin. During such periods, it is necessary for the baby to drink enough fluids, rest and get a good night's sleep. It is not recommended to reduce the temperature with antipyretic drugs if it has not reached high values.

It is strictly forbidden to give aspirin to your child. However, timely prevention will help avoid complications, and even infection with chickenpox itself. The main thing is to do everything in a timely manner and completely isolate the baby from contact with patients.

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Most frequently asked question, which concerned parents ask their favorite doctor, concerns the effects of brilliant green in children with chickenpox. Evgeny Komarovsky’s answer is unequivocal - there is no therapeutic effect from such an action, brilliant green serves only as an indicator of the period of infectiousness. Lubricating the blisters with a colored solution every day, one day mommy notices that there are no new rashes. From this moment the countdown begins for the last five days, when the baby can pose a danger to others.

The doctor draws the parents' attention to the fact that viral infection, which is chickenpox in children, is not affected by antibiotics even during the normal course of the disease special drugs does not require. Only in adolescence, when the disease is too severe, do doctors prescribe antiherpetic drugs.

The main advice that Dr. Komarovsky gives for mothers of sick children:

• avoid overheating, which increases itching;
• cut your nails short, wear gloves if necessary, and do your best to distract the baby from combing the bubbles;
• do not give aspirin so as not to cause liver complications;
• scratching the blisters leads to bacterial infection and the likelihood of marks for life;
• chickenpox quite strongly suppresses the immune system, so after suffering from the disease you should refrain from visiting kindergarten and devote more time to walks.

Regarding vaccinations, Komarovsky believes, sensible parents should not have any discussions. However, he reminds that vaccination against chickenpox is voluntary, so mothers and fathers will have to take responsibility for its implementation.

Possible complications

Fortunately, most children recover well from chickenpox. However, in some categories of patients the disease may have unfavorable outcomes, such as:

1. Hepatitis;
2. Pathology of structures eyeball(keratitis);
3. Encephalitis. This pathology is manifested by severe damage to the central nervous system, manifested by seizures. This is due to the high tropism of the virus to nerve tissue. In most cases, this complication is detected in patients on days 7-12 of the disease. A persistent disorder of higher nervous activity in the form of idiocy occurs relatively rarely;
4. Pustular skin lesions: phlegmon, abscesses or boils. They are the result of penetration of pathological microorganisms into the liquid inside the vesicle, which, upon contact with neutrophils, can form pus;
5. Pneumonia. Most often diagnosed in adults. A feature of chickenpox pneumonia is the extreme paucity of clinical symptoms. The diagnosis can only be made by x-ray, and the image reveals small inflammatory foci throughout almost the entire length of the lung tissue;
6. Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle. It is manifested by dullness of heart sounds, pain in the heart area, as well as changes in the cardiogram;
7. Jade – inflammatory disease kidney disease, which most often occurs on days 10-12 of illness. In most cases, this pathology goes away on its own and does not require any specific therapy.

However, chickenpox can still serve as a reason for the appearance of another disease, not as a complication. As you already know, chickenpox is a type of herpes virus, therefore the virus remaining in the body is inactive and occurs in a latent state. However, as a result of repeated exposure to the chickenpox virus and a number of associated factors, it can lead to the occurrence of a disease such as herpes zoster.

Prevention of chickenpox

The only effective measure to prevent chickenpox is vaccination. It is advisable to carry it out to women who have not had chickenpox and are planning a pregnancy, infants who have older brothers and sisters, children and adults with a defective immune system, and elderly people.

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Is it worth getting vaccinated?

Doctors began vaccinating children against chickenpox relatively recently. The composition of the vaccine is represented by live, but weakened pathogens. The first vaccination is usually given at 12–14 months. The chickenpox vaccine is re-administered after 3 to 5 years. Adolescents and adults who do not have natural immunity are vaccinated twice, with an interval of 1 month or more between injections.

Young children tolerate chickenpox vaccinations well, and pediatricians do not record any adverse reactions. However, if the child is part of a group of frequently ill children, it is necessary to consult with the local pediatrician about the advisability of vaccination. A weakened body may react to vaccination with unpredictable phenomena.

What is chickenpox (or simply chickenpox) and what are the causes? this disease? How dangerous is she? How does chickenpox begin in children and what are its characteristic signs?

Attention - virus!

Chickenpox is an infectious disease that causes fever and blistering rashes all over the body. The Varicella zoster virus is responsible for chickenpox. When it enters the body of an adult, it causes another disease - shingles.

The first mention of chickenpox appeared in antiquity. Evidence of it infectious nature obtained in 1875, but scientists were able to isolate and designate the chickenpox virus only in the middle of the twentieth century, or more precisely, in 1958.

It is characteristic that this virus can only infect humans. It can be detected in the contents of the vesicles starting from the 3rd or 4th day of the disease. The virus is not persistent. When heated, when irradiated with ultraviolet light or exposed to sunlight he quickly dies.

Don't try to hide

The virus is highly contagious. He can even penetrate into a neighbor's apartment with behind closed doors Therefore, in kindergartens, chickenpox is widespread. Children aged two to seven most often experience its “charms”. At the same time, chickenpox in children, the symptoms of which almost everyone has experienced, is not considered a dangerous disease. Many parents treat it as an inevitable stage of child development.

If in a group kindergarten If signs of chickenpox appear in children, then we can confidently say that everyone without exception will get sick. It is almost impossible to prevent an epidemic and take any measures. Therefore, chickenpox in children, the incubation period of which is quite long (two to three weeks), is one of the most highly contagious diseases. The virus spreads with impunity, managing to reach everyone without exception.

When can you become infected?

The carrier of the virus becomes infectious the day before the first visible signs chickenpox in children ( skin rashes), and can serve as a carrier of infection for several more days after the detection of a fresh rash, so quarantine for this disease ends no earlier than 5 days after the cessation of the appearance of new spots.

As a rule, a child of kindergarten age tolerates chickenpox relatively easily. If a child over seven years old gets sick, which in itself happens less frequently, the disease will be much more severe, and complications are possible. Babies, as a rule, do not get chickenpox until they are six months old. They are protected by the immunity received from the mother in the prenatal period.

Chickenpox is transmitted through the air, reaching the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes - hence the name. In our country, treatment is carried out under quarantine conditions, but in European countries, a child with chickenpox is not limited in contact with peers, since it is believed that it is better and safer to have it in childhood.

So the child got sick...

How does chickenpox start in children? Its onset is most often unexpected and takes parents by surprise.

You will immediately understand that chickenpox has begun in children - its symptoms cannot be confused with any others. When the disease occurs, the body temperature instantly rises to thirty-eight to thirty-nine degrees, and flat spots appear on the entire body, except for the palms and soles. pink rashes round in shape, reminiscent of insect bites. This is the initial stage of chickenpox. Young, inexperienced parents are often frightened, not understanding what kind of terrible illness has visited their baby. This happens because many people do not know what chickenpox looks like in children.

At this stage, the rash does not yet cause discomfort to the child. But literally after a couple of hours, small bubbles with transparent contents form in the center of each spot. When they appear, the child experiences itching and tries to scratch them. It is very important to prevent such scratching, as damaged skin is an open gate for any infection.

What's next?

10-12 hours after chickenpox begins in children, the first blisters that appear dry up and begin to crust over, but at the same time many new ones appear. The process lasts a week or ten days. New spots “bloom” on the child’s body every day, while the temperature is constantly high.

Sometimes the signs of chickenpox in children are not so obvious. Rashes can also appear on the scalp, so it is important to carefully examine your child’s hair. If there is a mild form of chickenpox in children, there may be very few pimples, sometimes only one or two. They may appear on the mucous membrane of the mouth or larynx. In this case, you should gargle with a solution of the drug "Furacilin" or use the spray "Ingalipt".

Afterwards comes the stage of extinction of the active process. The rash disappears within a week or two, leaving behind pigment marks that fade over time. But if an infection occurs during the active phase, small scars may remain on the skin.

Throughout the course of the disease, the little patient feels severe weakness, irritability, sleeps very poorly, and suffers from decreased appetite.

Let's talk about problems

Can there be complications with chickenpox? The most common cause is inflammation in the places where scratching occurred. If pathogenic microbes get into the wounds, the rash can fester and heal painfully and for a long time, leaving unsightly scars. IN in some cases Such marks remain for life.

If an infection occurs bacterial origin, it is possible to develop more serious complications - abscess, stomatitis, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, phlegmon and even pneumonia. In particular severe cases chickenpox can be complicated by nephritis or encephalitis. Parents should be informed about how chickenpox begins in children in order to react in time and prevent this from happening.

Diagnosis and treatment

The doctor usually makes the diagnosis based on the clinical manifestations of the disease. It is easy to diagnose chickenpox, since the characteristic rash is difficult to confuse with anything else.

In the normal course of chickenpox in children, the symptoms of which do not indicate the presence of complications, are treated at home under quarantine conditions. The exception is cases of very serious condition. As is known, infections viral origin(which includes chickenpox) are not treated with antibiotics, which is why parents sometimes become perplexed when prescribed by a doctor antibacterial drugs. You should know that such medications are prescribed only when a secondary infection occurs.

Most often this happens due to banal scratching of the bubbles. That is why monitoring the course of the disease in young children requires the constant attention of parents. During a period of acute illness, parents should make every effort to distract the child from constant itching. To do this, the baby needs to be constantly busy with something. You can use drawing, reading children's books, telling fairy tales.

Regime and care

There are no specific treatments for chickenpox, that is, pills for the rash have not yet been invented. It is required to maintain bed rest, keep linen clean, drink a lot and adhere to a milk-fruit diet.

The baby's underwear should be soft and only made of natural cotton. He needs to change his bed every day and under no circumstances should he starch it. Soft old sheets that you don’t mind getting dirty with brilliant green will do.

You should not wrap your child up; make sure that he does not sweat - this increases the itching. Give your baby a rosehip decoction, herbal tea or fruit drink, as well as juice diluted with water more often.

The main thing in treatment

The main measure to prevent complications is to treat the rashes twice or thrice a day with a solution of potassium permanganate or brilliant green. It should be understood that neither one nor the other cures chickenpox, but serves only as a disinfectant and reduces itching. In addition, the appearance and condition of the bubbles treated with brilliant green give the doctor an idea of ​​the stage of the disease and the progress of recovery.

When the temperature rises above thirty-eight to thirty-eight and a half degrees, the baby needs an antipyretic. If the itching becomes unbearable, you can ask your pediatrician to prescribe antihistamines.

One of the most controversial questions: “Is it allowed to bathe children with chickenpox?” In this case, the opinions of our and foreign pediatricians do not coincide. European doctors are confident that a shower soothes the skin and relieves itching, but domestic doctors, as a rule, are against any water procedures during this period. Only local baths with a solution of potassium permanganate are not prohibited.

Is it possible to prevent the disease?

Are there any preventive measures for this disease? The only one on this moment The measure is the timely isolation of the sick child and those who came into contact with him.

Quarantine is usually established for a period of up to 9 days from the moment of the first rash. If the disease has become widespread, quarantine in the kindergarten group is set for 21 days from the moment the first case of the disease is detected. If the date of contact with a sick child is known, from 1 to 10 days after this, children can still attend kindergarten and school, and from 11 to 21 days they are sent to quarantine.

Is it possible to get sick again?

Are there vaccinations against chickenpox? Scientists are ambivalent about the possibility of preventing this disease by preventive measures, apparently, this is why such vaccinations are not carried out in Russia.

Some parents wonder whether it is possible to get chickenpox again. As a rule, people suffer from it only once in a lifetime, after which antibodies are produced in the body of the person who has recovered from the disease. In the rarest cases, if antibodies are not developed for some reason, a recurrence of the disease is possible. Such cases are recorded only as an exception. At the same time, once the chickenpox virus enters the body, it remains with us forever, but the human immune system, as a rule, is able to keep it under control.

What consequences and memories does successful chickenpox leave behind in children? A photo from a family album with a baby stained with greenery will bring smiles for a long time. And there will be no trace of the disease itself.

Almost every mother knows what chickenpox looks like. This disease is one of the most common childhood infections. The initial stage of chickenpox is characterized by specific rashes.

How does the initial stage of chickenpox manifest? photo

The initial stage of chickenpox (photo 2) appears after a long incubation period. For children it is 2 weeks, and for adults the period from infection to the first symptoms can last 21 days. Chickenpox, the incubation period of which is activated after airborne contact with a sick person, begins with catarrhal phenomena. These are similar to the symptoms of a respiratory infection. The only difference is the specific acne associated with chickenpox.

Acne with chickenpox photo

Exactly acne with chickenpox(photo 3) and are a characteristic sign of this disease. The causative agent is, which enters the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. The onset of chickenpox at this stage goes unnoticed by the patient. This is the period of reproduction and accumulation of the pathogen. After the virus penetrates the regional lymph nodes and the circulatory system, the initial stage of chickenpox appears.

What chickenpox looks like photo

The main symptom by which you can understand what does chickenpox look like(photo 4) is a rash. At first these are ordinary red spots, not big size and round shape. The early stage of chickenpox first appears on the head and abdomen. As a result, the spots turn into papules (this is what pimples with chickenpox are called). The center of the area of ​​reddened skin rises, and a blister filled with clear liquid forms.

Chickenpox rash(photo in the gallery) subsequently transforms from a papule into a vesicle with purulent contents. Itching appears, which accompanies the process of opening acne. The next sign of how chickenpox manifests itself is ulceration of the papule with the formation of a scab or other crust. But this happens at a later stage.

Chickenpox in mild form

Chickenpox, the initial stage of which is characterized by a mild course, occurs in children under the age of 12 years. Incubation period in this case does not exceed two weeks. Chickenpox in mild form (photo 5) is most often not accompanied by an increase in temperature, and catarrhal symptoms are usually absent. What does chickenpox look like in such a case? Unlike the classic course of infection, in this case, elements of the rash can form on any part of the body or mucous membranes.

Chickenpox rash

The initial stage, even with a mild course, does not occur without rashes. They go through the same stages of development. However acne with chickenpox in this case they are not numerous, but they can be quite large. If the patient does not comb the blisters, they quickly dry out and fall off without joining. secondary infection. Chickenpox in mild form is practically not accompanied by secondary rashes.

How does chickenpox start?

The initial stage of chickenpox (photo 6) is easily disguised as a common upper respiratory tract infection. At the end of the incubation period, the child begins to have a headache, often weakness and almost always a temperature that can rise to 40 degrees.

Sometimes initial stage of chickenpox proceeds practically without symptoms. The patient's body temperature does not increase. Possible weakness and slight mild headache pain. Catarrhal manifestations are minor or absent altogether. In this case, when it began, the parents do not even assume that the child is sick and has the initial stage of chickenpox. The child goes to the children's group, and the infection spreads further.

The first signs of chickenpox

Catarrhal phenomena like first signs of chickenpox(photo 7) are observed during the first two days. At this stage, it is not possible to suspect an infection. Chickenpox is first diagnosed only when primary rashes appear. Only then will the doctor be able to say that the patient has chickenpox.

We discussed above what types of acne with chickenpox can occur and where they are located. It should be noted that the chickenpox rash does not clear up immediately, but goes away in waves. Each period of appearance of fresh papules is accompanied by severe intoxication and fever. In total, about ten days can pass from the moment chickenpox begins to the last rash.

What does chickenpox look like? This question often interests parents of young patients. Many childhood infections occur with skin rashes. To distinguish them from chickenpox, you need to know the main signs of this disease. This infection is widespread and easily transmitted. The disease is considered primarily in children, but adults can also become infected. The older the patient, the more severe the pathology.

Pathogen and routes of transmission

Chickenpox occurs due to the ingestion of the third type of herpes virus. This microorganism is otherwise called Varicella-Zoster or Herpes Zoster. It affects cells of the skin and nervous system.

The infection is very easily transmitted. If a person has never suffered from this disease in his life, then the probability of infection through contact with a patient with chickenpox is 100%. The virus spreads in the following ways:

1. Airborne. This is the most common method of infection. A sick person releases pathogens when talking, coughing and sneezing. When the virus enters the mucous membrane of the respiratory system, it leads to illness. Children in preschool and school institutions often become infected if there is at least one sick child in the group. Adults who work as educators and teachers are also susceptible to the disease.
2. Contact. Blisters appear on the patient’s skin, which are very itchy. When combed, they open. If the contents of the rash get on the skin of a healthy person, infection occurs.
3. In utero. This route of infection is rare. If a woman gets chickenpox while latest dates pregnancy, it can infect the baby. Typically, newborns rarely suffer from this disease, as they are protected from infection by antibodies from their mother's breast milk.

There is a misconception that chickenpox can be contracted through third parties who have been in contact with the patient. But such infection is impossible, since the virus is unstable to the external environment.

After suffering from the disease, the patient develops a strong immunity. However, the herpes virus, once it enters the body, remains there forever. It lives in nerve cells throughout a person’s life. When the immune system is weakened, the microorganism can become activated. The person's symptoms return, but in a very mild form. However, in adults it more often manifests itself in the form of shingles. This pathology occurs in patients who had chickenpox in childhood. She is also called herpetic infection third type. It is important to remember that you can also get chickenpox from a person with shingles.

Stages of the disease

In medicine, the following stages of chickenpox are distinguished:

1. Incubation period. At this time, the virus enters the mucous membrane of the throat and nose and begins to multiply.
2. Prodromal period. The infection enters the bloodstream, and the immune system begins to react to the foreign agent.
3. Acute stage. The virus reaches skin cells and spinal cord roots.
4. Recovery stage. The microorganism attaches itself to nerve cells and remains there forever.

The risk of transmission of infection exists during the incubation period, in the prodromal and acute stages. During the recovery phase, the patient ceases to be infectious 5 days after the rash disappears.

Incubation period

The incubation period lasts from 10 days to 3 weeks. At this stage of chickenpox there are no signs of illness. But, if you carry out a diagnosis, you can detect a virus and antibodies in the patient’s blood. However, at this stage, pathology is almost never determined, since the person feels normal and does not see a doctor.

Prodromal period

Lasts 1-2 days. The first signs of chickenpox appear. They resemble cold or flu symptoms. At this stage it is very difficult to distinguish from other diseases.

There is general malaise, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. rises to 38-39 degrees. Fever lasts from 2 to 5 days.

At this stage there is no rash yet. The virus has not yet reached the skin cells. Therefore, to the question of what chickenpox looks like during the prodromal period, we can answer that external manifestations There are no infections yet. Small red spots may only appear on the chest, which quickly disappear. But this is a manifestation general intoxication body, and not damage to skin cells.

Chickenpox in children occurs in a milder form than in adolescents and adults. U small child during the prodromal period, the temperature may increase slightly. In adults, the initial stage of chickenpox resembles symptoms of severe influenza. There is no sore throat or runny nose. Feels like severe weakness, body aches and headache.

Acute stage

At the acute stage, a rash appears. This is the most characteristic feature diseases. The temperature also persists during chickenpox; it continues for another 2-4 days.

It is important for doctors and parents of children to know about the nature of the rashes associated with this disease. First, red spots appear on the skin. This type of rash is called roseola. They cover the entire body and are small in size (up to 1 mm). The patient is bothered by severe itching. During this period, there are difficulties in diagnosing the disease. Even experts sometimes mistake the first signs of chickenpox in the acute stage for manifestations of other infections or allergies.

However, the period of rashes in the form of roseola does not last long, only a few hours. Very quickly, the red spots turn into compactions (papules), and then a vesicular rash appears. What does chickenpox look like during this period? Human skin is strewn with bubbles of liquid.

The patient is tormented constant itching, because of this, scratching occurs on the skin. For this reason, the vesicles become infected. Pustules form on the skin.

The formation of vesicles and pustules is characteristic symptom chickenpox. At this stage of the disease, an experienced infectious disease doctor can easily make a diagnosis by appearance sick. The rashes cover not only the skin of the face, body and limbs. They form on the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals, sometimes in the throat and conjunctiva. Vesicles and pustules also appear on the head, which is why it is observed after the illness severe loss hair. However, this manifestation is more common in adults. Chickenpox in children occurs in a milder form and with fewer rashes.

Recovery period

Approximately on the 6-8th day of illness, a significant improvement in the condition occurs. The temperature drops, health returns to normal. Chickenpox symptoms gradually disappear. The rashes dry out. They become covered with crusts, which subsequently fall off. Scars form at the site of the rash. Over time, the condition of the skin improves. Only single scars formed in place of large vesicles and pustules can remain for life. The healing process can take varying amounts of time, depending on the ability of the epithelium to regenerate. People who had chickenpox as children usually have no noticeable marks on their skin.

Forms of the disease

In addition to the classic form of chickenpox, there are varieties of this disease that occur with a unique clinical picture. There are the following atypical forms of pathology:

1. Rudimentary. Fever and intoxication are mild. There may be no rash. Sometimes single spots or blisters are noticeable on the skin.
2. Atypical. This form of the disease can be either mild or severe. In the first case, there is practically no rash, the patient’s condition is slightly disturbed. In severe cases, unusual rashes and sharp deterioration well-being.
3. Bullous. The blisters on the skin merge and large vesicles with yellowish contents are formed. After this form of the disease, the skin does not heal for a long time.
4. Hemorrhagic. Usually occurs in patients with blood pathologies. It is very rare, has a poor prognosis and can be fatal. What does chickenpox look like in such a dangerous form? The blisters on the skin are filled with bloody contents. In addition, the disease is accompanied by bleeding from the nose, gums and gastrointestinal tract.
5. Gangrenous. This form of the disease is rare, mainly in people with severe immunodeficiency. You may notice areas of dead skin around the rash. The blisters are large (up to several centimeters), filled with pus and blood, and after opening they take a long time to form non-healing ulcers. The patient's condition is rapidly deteriorating. This form of the disease poses a serious threat to life.
6. Generalized. Occurs in patients with severely reduced immunity or during corticosteroid therapy. It is characterized by an extremely serious condition of the patient and severe intoxication. Vesicles and pustules form not only on the skin and mucous membranes, but also on internal organs.

Possible complications

Chickenpox causes complications in approximately 5% of cases. More often, severe consequences of the disease occur in adolescents and adults, in children under 1 year of age, as well as in people with suppressed immunity. Marked the following complications diseases:

1. Congenital defects development in newborns. Chickenpox during pregnancy is very dangerous for the unborn baby. As already mentioned, infection in the last stages of gestation can lead to intrauterine infection of the child. If a woman suffered an infection during the period from the 12th to the 20th week of pregnancy, this can cause abnormalities in the development of the embryo. In addition, infection with chickenpox often causes miscarriage.
2. Secondary skin infection. During the acute stage of chickenpox, a person scratches his skin. Microorganisms penetrate the epithelium, causing abscesses and boils. The most severe complication is sepsis. To prevent infection of wounds, patients are advised to cut their nails short.
3. Pneumonia. In adults, chickenpox can be complicated by pneumonia. There is a cough with sputum, shortness of breath and chest pain. But very often the disease is asymptomatic and difficult to detect.
4. The virus enters other organs through the bloodstream. Such complications usually occur in adults with severe forms of the disease. The infection through the circulatory system can reach the brain, heart, joints, respiratory organs, and kidneys. arise inflammatory processes in organs.
5. Chickenpox balanoposthitis and vulvitis. These diseases occur in adult men and women. The rash in the genital area can cause widespread inflammation of the penis or vagina.
6. Shingles. This disease is more likely not a complication, but a relapse of chickenpox, since the herpes virus continues to live in the body. Pathology can occur in a person who has had an infection years or even decades after recovery. Weakened immunity provokes the onset of the disease. Skin rashes occur in the area of ​​the spinal cord roots and severe neuralgic pain. Usually one side of the body is affected.

To prevent the development of complications, you must consult a doctor for initial stage chickenpox. Even if the patient does not have a rash, fever and general malaise should prompt a visit to an infectious disease specialist.

Diagnosis of the disease

Experienced doctor can diagnose chickenpox in the acute stage without much difficulty. A specialist determines the disease by history, clinical picture and the nature of skin rashes.

Carrying out laboratory research usually not required. IN in rare cases When the disease is atypical and there is doubt about the diagnosis, tests for antibodies and viral DNA are prescribed.

Treatment methods

Treatment of chickenpox can only be symptomatic. There are currently no medications that can remove the virus from the body. The immune system is able to fight infection on its own. However, this does not mean that the disease can be left without drug treatment. Medicines are needed to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of chickenpox, prevent complications and help the body overcome the spread of infection.

In the first days of illness, patients experience fever. Do I need to take antipyretics? It is possible and necessary to bring down a fever, but not all medications are suitable for this. For example, Aspirin and Analgin should not be used. These drugs place too much stress on the central nervous system and liver. The child can be given Panadol or other children's medications with paracetamol. In adults, the disease is often severe with high fever. For them, medications containing ibuprofen and paracetamol are suitable.

In the first days of illness, when the temperature is high, you need to stay in bed. It is necessary to drink more liquid (tea with lemon, rosehip decoction, mineral water) to remove toxins from the body.

With chickenpox, the patient is bothered by severe itching. To reduce this unpleasant manifestation illnesses prescribed antihistamines: "Suprastin", "Tavegil", "Fenistil", "Claritin". For adults, wiping with a solution of water and vinegar or alcohol helps.

When treating chickenpox, antiviral drugs are used: Acyclovir, Interferon and Cycloferon. They cannot completely destroy the pathogen, but they reduce its reproduction and stimulate immune system. The use of antibiotics is ineffective because the disease is caused not by bacteria, but by a virus. However, in the event of a secondary streptococcal infection on the skin, the prescription of antibacterial drugs is indicated.

Be sure to use local remedies for treating rashes. These include the following antiseptic solutions:

• brilliant green;
• fucorcin;
• potassium permanganate.

However, these drugs have one significant drawback - they stain the skin. It looks unaesthetic, especially on the face. Therefore in Lately Doctors recommend using Calamine lotion for chickenpox. This remedy consists of zinc oxide and the natural mineral calamine. The drug does not leave marks on the skin, while drying out the rash, preventing infection and reducing inflammation.

In addition, it eliminates itching as it has cooling properties. This safe and effective remedy has become widespread these days.

As already mentioned, chickenpox rashes affect not only skin, but also the oral mucosa. Therefore, it is necessary to rinse several times a day with a weak solution of potassium permanganate.

Chickenpox vaccination

The disease leaves lifelong immunity. Previously, it was believed that having chickenpox in childhood was even beneficial, since it protected against infection in adulthood, when the disease is much more severe. However, it has now been established that the virus settles in the body forever and can be activated when immunity declines. A person who has had chickenpox runs the risk of getting a recurrence of the disease in the form of herpes zoster.

Therefore, it is better to protect yourself from chickenpox infection through vaccination. Varilrix and Okavax vaccines have been developed. They contain a live, weakened pathogen. Doctors recommend vaccination for children aged 1-2 years. These drugs can also be administered to adults. Vaccination is especially recommended for women planning pregnancy, patients with immunodeficiency, and workers in medical and child care institutions. This will help prevent chickenpox and shingles.