The Various Ways Of Treating Fifth Disease

Fifth disease, an airborne illness caused by the Parvovirus B19, is transmitted through contact with saliva and droplets in the air, like the kind expelled as the result of coughing. Cases are more widespread during winter, spring, and into the start of summer. Symptoms mimic those of the flu and include a headache, joint pain, fever, fatigue, sore throat, nausea, and congestion. It is often referred to as 'slapped cheek disease' because of the red rashes that appear on the face, trunk, and upper and lower extremities. The illness is common in kids, however, contraction as an adult is still possible. Get to know the various methods of treating Fifth disease now.

Increase Fluids

Our bodies are comprised of mostly water, and they require a set minimum each day to function correctly. Adequate intake of fluids not only clears toxins from the body, but it also thins mucus, therefore improving congestion, and it regulates body temperature, thus reducing fever. The opposite is also true in that dehydration can lead to worsening fever. A lack of water can exacerbate symptoms such as nausea leading to vomiting or diarrhea, which can cause losses of large amounts of fluids in a short time. For those afflicted with Fifth disease, it's recommended they consume approximately a gallon of fluids a day. Stick to clear liquids like water and broth. Fruit juices and sports drinks are also adequate, but avoid sugary beverages such as soda and artificial juice, as they can dehydrate the body. Beverages with excessive amounts of caffeine can also lead to dehydration as they increase the amount of water lost via the kidneys and increase the need to urinate.

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Get Some Rest

It may be cliche, but getting adequate rest is vital to the treatment of many conditions, including Fifth disease. Symptoms caused by a virus must burn out on their own, unlike bacterial infections which can be tag-teamed by the body's own immune system and the use of antibiotics. So, since there are no known means of treating Fifth disease with medication, symptom relief is the main focus of healthcare providers. The body has an amazing capacity to heal itself, but it needs all the energy it can get to do so. This is why when you are sick it is best to get some rest, extra rest if at all possible. During periods of rest, particularly sleep, the body generates proteins that are then used to repair cells damaged due to illness and exposure to harmful elements. Without plenty of rest, the body cannot regain the strength it needs to finish off the invading virus.

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Pain Relief Medication

Symptoms of Fifth disease include a headache, fever, and joint pain. Pain in the joints, particularly in the knees and in the bones of the hands and feet, are more common in adult patients, and more so women. Joint pain can last up to three or more weeks, sometimes up to months, yet they typically resolve on their own without any long-term complications. Pain relief medications, like acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, are reliable treatment options for easing aches and inflammation. They also have the benefit of lowering fever, another potential Fifth disease symptom. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs achieve results by decreasing the body’s production of chemicals that induce inflammation, making them a prime choice for treating slow and prolonged pain. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, affects the parts of the brain that intercept pain signals, which makes it helpful when treating minor aches. Remember to consult your healthcare provider to ensure safe administration of any pain medicine.

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Intravenous Immunoglobulin

The use of intravenous immunoglobulin is reserved for rare cases in which severe and life-threatening complications have risen, or if the patient suffering from Fifth disease is also immunocompromised due to some other illness or medical treatment. Immunoglobulin therapy is designed to help bolster the immune system to better combat an infection. It works by infusing the patient with the antibodies a healthy individual would normally generate through blood plasma. It is available for both pediatric and adult patients and can take up to four hours to complete. Infusions are typically done in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, a clinic, or a specialized center for infusions. In some instances, home care providers can administer the treatments.

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Watch And Wait

Symptoms of Fifth disease can range from mild to severe, the worst hit being adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. It is advised by many healthcare providers to watch and wait, with the treatment of symptoms being the prime focus of care. No medication is currently available that can kill or prevent the virus. Patients with a compromised immune system may need to be more closely watched by providers until signs of the disease have resolved. It can take a minimum of one week and up to three weeks for patients to fully recover. Those who experience complications, such as chronic anemia, or those at a higher risk for complications, such as pregnant women, should always consult their healthcare provider to ensure proper monitoring of their condition.