Yes, touching chicken pox can be painful, especially around the blisters. The skin around the chickenpox blisters can be hot, painful, and red. It is important to note that the redness may be harder to see on brown or black skin.
What Makes Chicken Pox Painful?
The pain associated with chickenpox can stem from a few factors:
- Inflammation: The varicella-zoster virus causes inflammation in the skin, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Blisters: The blisters themselves can be sensitive to touch and can break open, leading to further irritation and potential pain.
- Nerve Irritation: The virus can also irritate the nerves in the skin, causing a burning or tingling sensation.
Managing Chicken Pox Pain
While chickenpox is often mild, managing the pain and itchiness can improve comfort:
- Calamine Lotion: Applying calamine lotion can help soothe the skin and relieve itching.
- Cool Baths: Cool baths with added oatmeal can also help to alleviate itching and discomfort.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help to reduce pain and fever.
