We believe informed patients are better equipped to make decisions regarding their health and well-being. For your personal use, we have created an extensive patient library covering an array of educational topics, which can be found at right. Browse through these diagnoses and treatments to learn more about topics of interest to you or search by topic below.
As always, you can contact our office to answer any questions or concerns.
Dermatology Educational Resources
National Alopecia Areata Foundation
National Eczema Association
National Psoriasis Foundation
National Vitiligo Foundation Inc
American Vitiligo Research Foundation
Lupus Foundation of America
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation, Inc.
International Pemphigus and Pemphigoid Foundation
International Hyperhidrosis Society
The Skin Cancer Foundation
American Cancer Society
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
American Academy of Dermatology
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Chicken pox is a common illness, particularly among children. It is characterized by itchy red spots or blisters all over the body. Chicken pox is caused by the Herpes Varicella Zoster virus. It is highly contagious, but most cases are not dangerous.
Chicken pox can be passed on from two to three days before the rash appears until the blisters are crusted over. It spreads from exposure to infected people who cough, sneeze, share food or drinks or by touching the blisters. It is often accompanied by a headache, sore throat and possibly a fever. The incubation period (from exposure to first appearance of symptoms) is 14 to 16 days. When the blisters crust over, they are no longer contagious and the child can return to normal activity. This normally takes about 10 days after the initial appearance of symptoms.
It is important not to scratch the blisters as it can slow down the healing process and result in scarring. Scratching may also lead to another infection. To help relieve the itching, soak in a cool bath. The child should get plenty of bed rest and can take over-the-counter analgesics to reduce any fever. More serious cases are usually seen in people with other long-term health problems.
Although about four million children get chicken pox each year, it may be preventable via a vaccine. Children should receive two doses of the vaccine the first between 12 and 15 months and the second between ages four and six. Older children who have not been vaccinated can be effectively treated with two catch-up doses. Adults who have never had the illness should also be vaccinated.
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