A young girl, 17 years old, was hospitalized in Hanoi with severe chickenpox after her family administered herbal medicine and potent anti-inflammatory drugs. According to Doctor Tran Van Bac from the Central Tropical Diseases Hospital, the patient exhibited symptoms such as blisters all over her body, high fever, intense pain, inability to walk, confusion, irritability, and organ failure. Tests revealed coagulation problems, reduced platelet count, and elevated liver enzymes.
The patient contracted chickenpox from coming into contact with her younger sister who also had the disease. Initially, the family tried treating her with traditional medicine before seeking medical attention at a nearby clinic. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly and she was later diagnosed with severe chickenpox accompanied by a superinfection – functional ileus and a high risk of death.
The treatment plan included antiviral medication for chickenpox and other resuscitation measures. After a week of treatment, the patient gradually stabilized. Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella Zoster virus and is transmitted through respiratory droplets or skin contact with blister fluid. While most cases are mild and can be managed at home, certain groups are at higher risk of complications, and corticosteroid-containing drugs can worsen the severity of the illness.
It’s crucial to seek medical advice when experiencing symptoms of chickenpox and avoid self-medication with strong drugs that can aggravate the condition. Special care or hospitalization may be necessary for those with complications or who belong to high-risk groups.