Alright, let's talk about chickenpox. If you're an adult and haven't had it yet, consider yourself lucky because that s sucks. But is it dangerous for adults?
The Basics of Chickenpox
First things first, what the heck is chickenpox? It's a highly contagious viral infection that causes itchy blisters all over your body. Fun stuff, right?
The virus that causes chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus) typically affects children under 12 years old. Once you have had it, your body builds immunity to the virus making re-exposure-to-it unlikely.
How Do You Catch Chickenpox?
Well...through contact with an infected person's sneeze or cough droplets.
What are some other ways?
Isn't just being in their general vicinity enough?
Yes.
You don’t even need direct contact to catch this crummy disease. It’s like catching dust allergies from Aunt Susie who refuses to clean her house.
So how can we make sure not to catch this grumpy bout of blemishes?
Get vaccinated ASAP if you haven't; washing hands frequently; avoiding picking at any existing blisters so they don't further spread.
What Happens When An Adult Gets Chickenpox?
Basically...it's worse than when kids get it.
Adults tend to experience more severe symptoms compared to children with similar cases: higher fevers extra intense itching sensations longer recovery time complications are more possible
Complications?!
Yep! While most people recover from chickenpoxy warts without needing elaborate medical interventions , there is the possibility of overwhelming infections taking shape. Here are a few examples:
1) Skin Infections - Pushing into flesh tissue causing panic-worthy concerns as scar left behind will serve as a visible reminder of the experience.
Wait, timeout...what if you’re someone who is prone to scarring even from minor abrasions or mosquito bites? Have no fear steroid creams along with bandaging up will be your saving grace. There we go - fixed that problem!
Now...onto discussing more possible complications:
2) Pneumonia - not cool 3) Encephalitis (brain inflammation) 4) Toxic Shock Syndrome [Bonus points for those ladies out there who had forgotten about this one] 5).Bloodstream Infections/Septicaemia
Um…yeah...
But I'm An Adult - Shouldn't I Be Fine?
Well, that depends on how "fine" you consider having itchy blisters all over your body and potentially suffering through some serious complications.
The older you are when you get chickenpox, the higher risk of severe virus-related issues. Additionally, if an adult has a weak immune system (whether due to medical conditions like HIV or certain medications), they're at an even greater risk than healthy adults.
How Long Does Chickenpox Last?
If only it were just for the weekend trip to Aunt Susie's house without wifi signal. Unfortunately symptoms tend to last approximately fourteen days After which feel free to make up rollercoaster stories involving chickens in struggle as well as bouts of smootheness .
In case wondering why so long... Once infected by chickenpox ,the exceptionally contagious varicella-zoster virus sets itself up shop comfortably in both respiratory tract and nerve tissue. Treatment possibilities typically involve managing symptoms like fever relief.
And What About The Itching?
Oh my gosh did we mention yet how annoyingly itchy these blisters would turn out?! Let’s talk remedies briefly:
- Calamine lotion! Whose bright idea was this anyway? Have them step forward so we can sing their praises...
- Oatmeal Baths
- Cool compresses (not artificial ice cubes, a damp cloth will do just fine)
- Antihistamines - for once that stuffy nose and sneezing can be used to our advantage.
Chickenpox Treatment
Here's the thing: there's no cure for chickenpox. But there are ways to manage symptoms and prevent further infections from developing.
What Happens If You're Exposed?
If you're exposed to someone with chickenpox, it takes anywhere from 10-21 days before symptoms pop up in your own body... but .
If you get vaccinated within that time frame, it could help protect against getting infected or at least lessen severity of virus.
So What Can Help Manage Symptoms?
1) Over-The-Counter-Painkillers
Ibuprofen just becoming your new best friend promising short-term relief
2) Rest
This one might seem obvious but let's reiterate… REST!
3) Plenty Of Fluids And Good Nutrients
A healthy diet may not always ward off diseases but staying well hydrated by consuming plenty of water along with fruits & veggies should not dent chances
Don't make things worse by being malnourished now...
4) Watch Out For Signs Of Infection
- Redness
- Warmth around blisters area
- Pus accumulation
Be on alert! An infection must be addressed swiftly before we even consider taking selfies showing blemishes galore so temporary buffs include: a) bandages/band aids b)masks meant to fight stigma rather than actual risk-reduction purposes!
Conclusion
So is chickenpox dangerous for adults? Yes, unfortunately it can be if proper care isn't taken or if the individual already has health complicating factors [sweetie]. But don't fear–keep practicing good hygiene habits, and getting vaccinated as well as discussing immunization with medical professionals around you. That's pretty much it...
And remember! Just because chickenpox scars may fade, our memories will last a lifetime.