The signs and symptoms of chickenpox typically appear within 10 to 21 days after exposure to the virus. The main symptoms include:
- Rash: The most characteristic symptom of chickenpox is a rash that appears as itchy, red, raised spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters. The rash usually starts on the trunk and spreads to the face, scalp, and limbs.
- Fever: A fever, usually around 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, is common before and during the rash.
- Fatigue: Many people also experience tiredness and general malaise.
- Loss of appetite: Some people may also lose their appetite.
- Headache: Some people may also experience a headache.
- Cough, runny nose, and sore throat: These symptoms may occur before the rash appears.
- Itching: The rash is extremely itchy, and scratching can lead to secondary skin infections.
- Blisters: The blisters are typically located on the face, scalp, and trunk, and they can also be found on the arms, legs and genitals.
Complications
Chickenpox is normally a mild disease. But it can be serious and can lead to complications including:
- Bacterial infections of the skin, soft tissues, bones, joints or bloodstream (sepsis)
- Dehydration
- Pneumonia
- Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
- Toxic shock syndrome
- Reye’s syndrome in children and teenagers who take aspirin during chickenpox
- Death
It’s worth noting that not everyone who is infected with the virus will develop all these symptoms, and some people may have only a mild case, with only a few spots. However, some people may have a more severe case, with many blisters and a high fever.