Chickenpox is a highly contagious but typically mild disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus, most commonly affecting those 12 and younger. It is possible, however, for adolescents and adults to contract the infection as well.
While the tell-tale rash is the most recognized symptom of chickenpox, other ones can occur as well. Here is a look at the some of the most common signs and symptoms of this infectious disease.
Fever
A fever is the body’s response to disease or illness and is often a warning sign of an infection. A temperature that stays around 101 to 102 degrees is a common first symptom of chickenpox. In some cases, it can appear a couple days before the rash and remain for a few days afterward.
Headache
A persistent headache is another early symptom of chickenpox. Like most of the others, the headache is unpleasant but generally mild. If a headache becomes severe and is accompanied with vomiting, call a doctor immediately.
Change in Appetite
A sudden change in appetite is expected when dealing with chickenpox—especially a loss of appetite.
Papules
After a couple days of initial symptoms, the rash will begin to appear appear on the face, chest, and back. The first phase of the rash is the spread of papules: small, raised itchy bumps.
Vesicles
Phase two of the rash consists of the appearance of fluid-filled blisters known as vesicles. It takes about one day for papules to turn into vesicles. After this change, they will begin to break open and leak.
Scabbing
In the final phase of the rash, the broken blisters crust over and turn into scabs, which will take a few more days to fully heal. It is important to keep in mind that chickenpox remains contagious until all scabs have cleared up.
