Doctor's Notes on Fifth Disease
Fifth disease (also called erythema infectiosum, or EI) is a mild viral illness that usually occurs during winter and spring, and most commonly in children aged 5 to 14 years.
Symptoms of fifth disease begin as mild vague illness. Early symptoms last several days and include
- low-grade fever,
- runny or stuffy nose,
- mild sore throat,
- fatigue,
- muscle aches, and
- a headache.
About one week to 10 days later, the characteristic bright red facial rash (slapped cheeks appearance) suddenly develops and then fades within about four days. As the red facial rash fades, a light pink rash appears on the arms and may spread to the trunk, buttocks, and thighs. This light pink rash then gradually fades to a lacy pattern that lasts three to four days before going away.
What Is the Treatment for Fifth Disease?
Fifth disease is a common virus that often goes away on its own without treatment.
Home treatment for fifth disease includes rest at home and plenty of adequate hydration.
Symptoms of fifth disease may be treated with medications:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers
- Antihistamines to relieve itching
Antibiotics are not used to treat fifth disease because it is caused by a virus.
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How Do I Identify A Rash?
Symptoms of skin rashes depend on the condition and can be identified by some hallmark characteristics, including shape, color, texture and where they appear on the body. -
How Do I Know If My Child Has Fifth Disease?
Fifth disease is a common childhood infection that causes symptoms such as a rash, fever, fatigue, body aches, and cold-like symptoms. A “slapped cheek” rash, or bright red cheeks that look like they have been slapped, is a tell-tale symptom of fifth disease. -
Rash (Causes, Types, and Cures)
A rash is a visible skin outbreak. Examples of noninfectious rashes include eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, hives, and allergic dermatitis. Types of infectious rashes include ringworm, impetigo, scabies, herpes, chickenpox, and shingles. Rashes may be caused by fungi, viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Treatment depends upon the type of rash. -
Skin Rashes in Children
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Sore Throat
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What Is the Most Common Skin Rash?
Skin rashes are abnormal changes in skin color, texture, or appearance that are usually a result of skin inflammation. Rashes may affect a localized area or occur all over the body.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.