Fifth Disease

For normally healthy people, home treatment for fifth disease consists of taking measures to keep them comfortable until their symptoms go away. Suggestions include:

• Giving plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration.
• Giving acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) to reduce fever and to relieve headache and joint pain. Follow all directions on the label. If you give medicine to your baby, follow your doctor’s advice about what amount to give. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20 because of the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but serious disease.
• Preventing scratching. Trim your child's fingernails and have him or her wear gloves at night to help prevent scratching during sleep.
• Having adults with joint pain and swelling rest and limit their activities.

The rash may itch more in adolescents and adults than in children. Some ways to help reduce itchiness include:

• Taking oatmeal baths. For an oatmeal bath, place 1 cup uncooked oatmeal in a cotton cloth, tie it off, and cook it in boiling water until the oatmeal is soft. Use the bundled oatmeal as a sponge while bathing in lukewarm water. You can also use a store-bought oatmeal bath instead of home-prepared oatmeal.
• Applying calamine lotion to the rash.
• Taking a nonprescription antihistamine, such as Benadryl, which may help if the itching is very bothersome. Don't give these medicines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first.
• Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing.