Difference Between Chicken Pox And Hand Foot And Mouth Disease
Chicken pox and hand foot and mouth disease are two common viral infections that affect children. Although they share some similar symptoms, they are caused by different viruses and have different treatments. In this article, we will discuss the differences between these two diseases to help you understand them better.
What is Chicken Pox?
Chicken pox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is most common in children but can affect people of all ages. Chicken pox is characterized by an itchy rash that appears all over the body. The rash starts with small red bumps that quickly turn into fluid-filled blisters. The blisters eventually break and form scabs, which can take several days to heal.
Chicken pox is spread through direct contact with an infected person or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms usually appear 10 to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, and body aches in addition to the rash.
There is no cure for chicken pox, but the symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and antihistamines. A vaccine is available to prevent chicken pox, and it is recommended for all children.
What is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease?
Hand foot and mouth disease is a viral infection caused by the Coxsackie virus. It is most common in children under the age of 5, but can affect people of all ages. The disease is characterized by a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. The rash appears as small red bumps that turn into blisters and can be painful.
Hand foot and mouth disease is spread through contact with an infected person's saliva, stool, or respiratory secretions. Symptoms usually appear 3 to 5 days after exposure and include fever, sore throat, and a general feeling of being unwell in addition to the rash.
There is no specific treatment for hand foot and mouth disease, but symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and mouthwashes to relieve the pain of mouth sores. The disease usually resolves on its own within a week to 10 days.
What are the Differences Between Chicken Pox and Hand Foot and Mouth Disease?
Although chicken pox and hand foot and mouth disease share some similar symptoms, there are several differences between the two diseases:
- Cause: Chicken pox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, while hand foot and mouth disease is caused by the Coxsackie virus.
- Rash: The rash in chicken pox starts on the face and trunk and spreads to the arms and legs, while the rash in hand foot and mouth disease appears on the hands, feet, and mouth.
- Blisters: The blisters in chicken pox are larger and more numerous than those in hand foot and mouth disease.
- Fever: Fever is more common in chicken pox than in hand foot and mouth disease.
- Treatment: There is no specific treatment for hand foot and mouth disease, while the symptoms of chicken pox can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
- Complications: Chicken pox can lead to more serious complications like pneumonia, while hand foot and mouth disease is usually a mild illness that resolves on its own.
Conclusion
Chicken pox and hand foot and mouth disease are two viral infections that are common in children. Although they share some similar symptoms, they are caused by different viruses and have different treatments. If you suspect that you or your child has one of these diseases, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.