Chickenpox is a common childhood illness, but it comes with risks that many parents may not fully understand. One of the lesser-known dangers involves using ibuprofen to manage symptoms. A mother’s viral Facebook post from 2016 serves as a critical reminder of the potential dangers associated with this medication when treating chickenpox. Let’s dive into why ibuprofen should be avoided and explore safe alternatives for relieving chickenpox symptoms.

What Is Chickenpox?

Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is an incredibly contagious infection. It typically begins with itchy skin rashes that evolve into fluid-filled blisters before bursting and healing over time. While it’s often seen as a childhood rite of passage, it can be quite uncomfortable, not just for the person infected but also for those around them. Family members either help the patient manage symptoms or distance themselves to avoid contracting the virus.

Chickenpox symptoms usually show up 10 to 21 days after exposure, and recovery typically takes about two weeks.

Who Gets Chickenpox?

Although chickenpox is most common in children, adults can contract it too. In fact, statistics reveal that 90% of chickenpox cases occur in young children, with those under the age of two being the most susceptible. People are at a higher risk of contracting the virus if:

• They haven’t had chickenpox before.
• They work in environments with children, such as schools or childcare centers.
• They live with children, which increases exposure.

How Does Chickenpox Spread?

Chickenpox spreads easily through the air via droplets from an infected person’s sneezing or coughing. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces or objects that have been in contact with blister particles. What makes chickenpox particularly contagious is that someone infected can transmit the virus one to two days before they even show any symptoms.

Ibuprofen Worsened This Child’s Chickenpox

Managing chickenpox symptoms, particularly fever and itching, is no easy task, especially for parents trying to comfort their children. Naturally, when doctors recommend medications, parents often follow that advice without question. This was the case for Haley Lyons, a mother from Warrington, England, who trusted medical professionals and gave her son, Lewis, ibuprofen to reduce his fever during a bout with chickenpox.

To her horror, the ibuprofen had a severe adverse effect on Lewis, causing his condition to worsen drastically. After he developed a serious infection called septicemia, Haley rushed him to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, where doctors explained that ibuprofen should never be used to treat chickenpox symptoms.

Haley’s Facebook post, which quickly gained attention, warned other parents about the dangers: “Chickenpox is going around again. Can I please remind people NOT to give your children nurofen/ibuprofen… This type of medicine is an anti-inflammatory, it reacts with chickenpox making them go deeper into the skin tissue.”

Thanks to her persistence in seeking further medical advice, Lewis recovered. But her story serves as an important reminder that some commonly recommended medications can make conditions like chickenpox much worse.

Why Taking Ibuprofen Is Dangerous When You Have Chickenpox

Ibuprofen, like other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause chickenpox lesions to become more deeply embedded in the skin, increasing the risk of severe infections. According to a study published in the British Journal of General Practice, NSAIDs should not be used in children with varicella (chickenpox) because they increase the risk of skin and soft-tissue complications.

The American Academy of Pediatrics echoes this caution, stating that ibuprofen has been linked to life-threatening bacterial skin infections in children with chickenpox. Though the exact reasons aren’t fully understood, one theory is that NSAIDs reduce the body’s immune response to skin infections, allowing bacteria to spread more easily and cause damage.

It’s also worth noting that aspirin, another anti-inflammatory drug, should never be given to treat chickenpox, as it increases the risk of developing Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that affects the liver and brain.

Safest Ways to Deal With Chickenpox-Related Symptoms

Now that we know ibuprofen and aspirin are off the table, what can you safely use to treat chickenpox symptoms? Here are a few recommended options to manage fever, pain, and itchiness:

1. Use Acetaminophen for Fever Relief
   The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve fever and discomfort caused by chickenpox. It’s considered safe for children and pregnant women.
2. Soothe the Itch Without Scratching
   Scratching the blisters can lead to bacterial infections, so it’s important to control the itch:
   • Tap or pat the itchy areas rather than scratching them.
   • Take cool oatmeal baths to calm the skin.
   • Apply calamine lotion to the itchy spots.
   • Wear loose, cotton clothing to reduce irritation.
   • Use antihistamines like Benadryl to help manage the itching.
3. Stay Hydrated
   Drinking plenty of fluids helps the body fight the infection and keeps the mouth and throat moist, reducing discomfort.

The Danger of Tonsil Stones and Chickenpox

Tonsil stones, while generally harmless, can exacerbate the discomfort of chickenpox. These yellowish chunks form when debris gets trapped in the crevices of your tonsils. They can lead to bad breath and, in rare cases, infections. To avoid this:

• Gargle with salt water or mouthwash regularly to reduce bacterial buildup.
• Brush and floss daily to keep your mouth clean.

Conclusion

Haley Lyons’ experience highlights a crucial fact: not all medications are safe for treating chickenpox. Ibuprofen and NSAIDs can lead to dangerous skin infections, making it essential to stick to safe alternatives like acetaminophen and home remedies for itch relief. Parents should remain vigilant and consult with their doctor or pediatrician if their child’s symptoms worsen or don’t improve.

By following these safe treatments and avoiding the use of ibuprofen, you can manage chickenpox symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of complications. Remember, staying informed and cautious is key when caring for your child’s health.