What is Roseola?
Roseola has several names, such as the sixth disease, rash after fever, roseola infantum and exanthem subitum. This disease brings several days of high fever. And when that fever breaks, a rash, usually pink, follows. Roseola usually affects children between 6 months and two years old. (x) The infection is a popular conversation among mothers because most children have roseola, and though it’s a discomfort, it’s hardly ever severe.
Generally, roseola is not a severe condition and rarely causes complications. In fact, some kids that have this disease may not even show any symptoms, while others offer the full range of symptoms. Treatment involves lots of bed rest, medication and taking lots of fluids. However, roseola often runs its course even without treatment. (x) Some parents prefer to treat the aliment with supplements or other natural remedies. Again, though, it’s best to check with your pediatrician first.
Roseola vs. Measles
The skin rash that accompanies roseola infection resembles the one for measles. However, there are distinct differences between the two types of rashes. A measles rash is reddish and usually starts in the face before spreading downwards to the entire body. (x)
On the other hand, the rash caused by roseola is pinkish and usually begins on the tummy and then spreads to the arms, legs and face. The condition of roseola patients often improves once the rash appears. However, if a child has measles, he or she will still feel ill even when the rash appears. (x)
Causes of Roseola
Type 6 and 7 human herpes viruses, from the same family as the herpes simplex virus, cause roseola. (x) However, the major difference between the two types of viruses is that the herpes virus causes cold sores and affects the genitals, while the roseola virus does not. (x)
How Roseola Spreads
Like other viral diseases, roseola is contagious and may spread through contact with respiratory fluids, hand contact and oral secretions. (x) The incubation period for this virus is between nine to ten days. (x) The virus that causes this infection does not affect animals; humans are it’s only natural host. The risk of Roseola infection exists throughout the year and seasonal changes do not affect the chances of your children catching the health concern. (x)
Roseola Symptoms
The symptoms of roseola usually appear within the first five to 15 days of infection. (x) However, the symptoms of this condition may not be noticeable in some cases.
A common symptom of roseola is a rash. This rash starts on the torso and spreads to the arms, legs, face and neck. A typical roseola rash is often pink, small and flat or raised. Some rashes may also have a halo around them or a slightly lighter ring than the primary rash’s color. Also, a roseola rash usually disappears or fades when you press it with a glass.
In most cases, the rash does not cause itching and usually disappears within a few days. However, some children may not develop the rash.
Other symptoms include: (x)
- Fever
- Swollen eyelids
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Runny nose
- Irritability
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin or neck
Rarely Side Effects
Most children infected with the roseola virus may not show any symptoms because the virus clears from the body before it can cause symptoms. (x) However, even those who develop symptoms experience side effects rarely. Nevertheless, infected children with weak or compromised immune systems, such as infants, people on cancer treatment or those with HIV-AIDS, may experience some complications. (x)
Complications
Complications arising from a roseola infection are pretty rare because most people make a full recovery approximately seven days after the first symptoms appear. (x) However, some children may experience severe complications.
Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences seizures because of a roseola infection. Some infected children may experience seizures known as febrile seizures. (x) This symptom usually occurs when a child experiences a rapid increase in body temperature.
Typical characteristics of a seizure include loss of consciousness, loss of bladder or bowel control and jerking of the arms, legs or head. Although many parents will find these alarming, febrile seizures are mostly harmless. Nevertheless, seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences seizures. (x)
Children with weak or compromised immune systems may also experience complications because of roseola infection. Examples of people with compromised immune systems include infants, individuals on cancer medication, people with HIV/AIDS, and recently received organ transplants. (x)
If your children with weakened immune systems have roseola, they may experience severe symptoms and may find it difficult to recover from the infection. Additional complications of roseola include pneumonia and encephalitis or inflammation of the brain, life-threatening. (x)
Diagnosis of Roseola
Diagnosing roseola is problematic because it rarely shows any symptoms. And even when symptoms occur, they resemble those of other childhood illnesses. (x) Doctors may diagnose roseola by observing your child for the characteristic rash associated with the disease. They may also inform you of the signs to check for when caring for your baby at home. The healthcare professional may do a blood test to confirm a roseola diagnosis. (x) Honestly, it’s usually pretty easy to diagnose, and a phone call describing the symptoms for diagnosis works.
Be that as it may, consult a doctor immediately if your child shows these symptoms: (x)
- Very high fever that lasts for more than a week
- Persistent rash that lasts for more than three days
- If your child has a compromised immune system
- If your child experiences febrile seizures
Roseola Remedies
One of the drugs used to treat roseola fever is Tylenol. (x) Alternatively, doctors may prescribe ibuprofen for fever relief. Both drugs are equally effective in treating the fever that comes with roseola infection. Never give aspirin to young kids and adolescents.
Doctors often recommend various remedies to manage the symptoms of roseola and reduce the discomfort associated with the infection. In addition, roseola patients need lots of rest and fluids. (x)
If you don’t feel comfortable giving your children over-the-counter medications, the article describes some effective natural remedies below.
- Fluids
It is essential to remain hydrated by drinking water regularly. (x) Some of the fluids recommended for the management of roseola symptoms include:
- Water
- Sports drinks
- Broth
- Electrolyte solution
- Lemon-lime soda
- OTC Medication
Doctors may prescribe some over-the-counter medication to be given to children with roseola to provide pain relief. Parents should always read the instructions on the packaging for accurate information on dosage and timing. Avoid giving aspirin to children below the age of 16 because of its link to Reye’s syndrome, which can be life threatening. Or, you can avoid taking OTC medications and use natural remedies. (x)
- Antiviral Medication
Doctors may prescribe an antiviral medication such as cytovene (x) for people with weak immune systems to prevent virus replication. However, medical professionals do not recommend antibiotics for treating roseola because they are ineffective against viruses.
- Rest
To manage the symptoms of roseola, allow your child to rest for as long as possible. (x) If he or she has the energy, let them play. Nevertheless, they shouldn’t overexert themselves or be around other kids because roseola can be contagious.
- Keep Cool
To reduce the discomfort that comes with a fever: (x)
- Take baths with lukewarm water
- Apply a cold compress on the forehead
- Use a light bed sheet
- Avoid using cold water when bathing to avoid chills
Your child can go back to normal activities once he or she is fever-free for over 24 hours. Never sponge a child with alcohol to reduce fever. (x)
Home Remedies and Supplements for Roseola
Before giving your child any supplements, please talk with your pediatrician and make sure it’s safe. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations recommends appropriate food and nutrition when your child is sick — vitamins, minerals and protein. (x) Some supplements to consider:
- Vitamin C
The vitamin C supplement calcium ascorbate is a neutral salt that boosts the absorption of calcium. The safe serving size for this supplement is between 300 and 1,000 milligrams taken three times per day. Vitamin C is non-toxic and has few side effects. However, an overdose could cause nausea, flatulence, diarrhea and vomiting. The side effects will decrease if you lower the dosage. (x)
Talk to a physician for supplementation advice if you have a copper deficiency or problems with storing iron in your body. In addition, do not use vitamin C supplements if you are pregnant.
- Zinc
Zinc supplement aids digestion and supports reproductive and immune health. The suggested dosage is no more than 77 milligrams per day. For the best results, consider taking this supplement with magnesium, copper and vitamins B and C. Overdose may cause side effects such as skin irritation, rash and itching.
Avoid taking this product if your child is allergic to zinc. In addition, store in a cool, dark place to preserve potency.
- Selenium
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant with multiple health benefits. This product supports cardiac and immune health and may minimize the risk of certain cancers. In addition, it prevents mental decline and supports thyroid health. The recommended dietary allowance for this supplement is between 55 and 75 milligrams per day. Selenium is in pine bark extract and bearberry leaf extract. As with all supplements, consult your pediatrician beforehand.
- Chamomile
In addition to its calming effect, chamomile boosts skin and digestive health. As a result, this product helps minimize the risk of anxiety and inflammation. For the best results, take 800 milligrams twice per day with lots of water.
Drowsiness is a common side effect of chamomile. Therefore, let your child relax and sleep. As an adult taking this herb, do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience this side effect. In addition, avoid using chamomile tea if you are in a maternal condition or lactating.
- Echinacea Extract Powder
Echinacea helps promote immune and skin health. The recommended dietary intake for this supplement is 450 milligrams taken twice per day. Although this supplement is generally safe for use, avoid taking it if you have autoimmune disorders or if your child is allergic to daisy, ragweed or marigold. In addition, for adult women, pregnant and nursing women should not use echinacea supplements.
Where to Buy Supplements for Roseola?
You can purchase these powders and supplements for roseola at BulkSupplements.com. The company is an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor of pure dietary supplements.
BulkSupplements.com is not just a consumer brand. It also supplies pure ingredients to other food and supplement brands to make their products. All products at BulkSupplements.com are manufactured and tested according to current and proper manufacturing practices.
Are you interested in trying any of these powders or supplements mentioned in this article as a possible solution for your child with roseola? Contact BulkSupplements.com to place an order today.
Roseola Prevention
Roseola does not have a vaccine. (x) Therefore, prevention involves limiting exposure to those who show signs of infection. On that note, parents should restrict contact between healthy children and those who have roseola until the symptoms subside.
Parents taking care of children who have roseola should wash their hands after contact with the sick children to avoid transmitting the infection to other kids. If possible, wipe down high traffic surfaces with antimicrobial spray. In addition, teach your child proper hygiene, such as sneezing on tissues and disposing of the tissues properly. In addition, avoid sharing utensils with infected persons. (x)
The Bottom Line
Roseola primarily affects children below the age of 2. It is a common illness, which is common and recovery is simple.
Typical symptoms include a fever followed by a pinkish rash. In most cases, roseola does not require medication and often clears from the system in a few days. Several natural remedies may work well in keeping the child comfortable and restful.
However, those with weak immune systems may have severe symptoms. Fortunately, medications and home remedies for helping to manage the symptoms are available.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.