How can I help dd cope with chickenpox?

[Pinkjenny]

She is 2yo and started with them on Friday. Her torso is covered, as is her face. She has been totally fine all day, playing, eating - no problems. But she can't sleep. She has had piriton, covered in calamine cream. She is trying so hard to sleep but is too itchy.

Is there anything I can do?

piriton and calamine. You can actually give her more of the recommended dose of Piriton - dd had a much higher dose with her excema as the side effect is that it maes you sleepy. Ask a doctor first though

Please be aware that for some people piriton can actually have a paradoxical effect. i.e. for most people the side effect is to make one drowsy. My dd1 experienced the opposite effect. It can make children wakeful or even hyperactive/irritable.

I personally wouldn't give a small child higher than the recommended dose unless a doctor suggested it. Afaik it can suppress the respiratory system for some people.

I would suggest a lukewarm bath/shower, let her stay in as long as she wants to .

She will probably be much better in 24-48 hours. If possible try and have a rest yourself tomorrow if she has a v wakeful night.

Sorry 2Shoots, I just noticed you also advised the op to check with a dr.

I've brought her back downstairs and she's just playing with her kitchen. I didn't think there was much point in forcing her to sleep if she can't get comfy. I wonder if that was the right thing to do. The look on dh's face would suggest not.

Aloe Vera spray - provides relief from itchiness straightaway, helps spots heal, won't need to use anything else as it works absolute wonders!!!

have a fan on in her room to keep her cool and she's less likely to feel itchy

Any advice for chickenpox with 12 week old - can they have aloe vera spray?

Aveeno bath stuff or just put some oat flakes in a muslin and place in the bath. i.e. oats are good to reduce skin irritation.

I got an anti-histamine medicine prescribed by the doctor. It wasn't Piriton, can't remember what it was called. Worked wonders with DS, he went from zero sleep on one night to 14 hours the next.

Thanks for the advice - sorry to hijack this one.