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Talking to Your Doctor About Chickenpox

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

ConditionInDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Chickenpox

Talk openly and often with your healthcare provider. It will help you make the best choices for your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will help you talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to give more details.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing.
  • Ask for help if you need it. Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Your Risk of Getting Chickenpox

  • Should I be tested to see if I have immunity to chickenpox?
  • How long will it take for me to have symptoms if I exposed?
  • How long can a person spread the virus?

About Treatment Options

  • Should I be vaccinated against chickenpox?
  • What over the counter medicines can I take to ease symptoms?
  • What medicines can I take to lower the risk of health problems?
    • What are the benefits/side effects of these medicines?
    • Will these medicines cause problems with the other medicines, over the counter products, dietary or herbal supplements that I am already taking?
  • At what point should I get medical care for chickenpox?
  • How can I keep blisters from scarring?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • I’m pregnant or planning on getting pregnant soon. Are there any special steps I should take?
  • What steps should I take if I’m traveling out of the country?
  • How long should I keep my child away from others after getting chickenpox?

About Outlook

  • Are there any long-term health problems from chickenpox?

References

  • Chickenpox. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chickenpox.
  • Chickenpox. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/chickenpox.
  • Chickenpox (varicella). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox.
  • Kennedy PGE, Gershon AA. Clinical features of varicella-zoster virus infection. Viruses. 2018;10(11):609.
  • Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor.

Contributors

  • April Scott, NP
Last Updated:
2022-11-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.