Does chickenpox cause a sore throat?

In general, chickenpox may cause a sore throat.

Chickenpox is an acute infectious disease caused by the initial infection of varicella-zoster virus. After entering the body, the virus proliferates within the epithelial cells of the respiratory mucosa and then enters the bloodstream to form viremia, subsequently spreading throughout the body. During the process of viral proliferation and dissemination, the mucous membranes of the throat may become irritated and damaged, triggering an inflammatory response, which leads to a sore throat.

The skin vesicles of chickenpox patients are easily ruptured, compromising the skin's barrier function. At this time, the body's resistance also declines. The mucous membranes of the mouth and throat are similarly susceptible to bacterial invasion. When secondary bacterial infection occurs, the inflammation intensifies, stimulating the nerve endings in the throat, causing significant sore throat. Following viral infection, the body's immune system is activated, and the surrounding lymph nodes may become enlarged and painful. If the lymph nodes in the neck or pharynx are involved, they may compress surrounding nerves and tissues, and the inflammatory response may also affect the throat area, thereby causing a sore throat.

Chickenpox patients usually experience fever, which accelerates the body's metabolism. The mucosal blood vessels in the throat dilate and become congested, and the mucous membranes become dry, causing throat pain. Some chickenpox patients may also develop vesicles on the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. These vesicles can stimulate local nerves, causing increased pain during swallowing, and patients may distinctly feel a sore throat.

If a chickenpox patient develops persistent or severe sore throat, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to rule out possible secondary infections or other complications and to receive appropriate treatment. When managing chickenpox and its associated symptoms, maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding scratching the rash, and following medical advice for treatment and care can help promote recovery and prevent complications.