Associated symptoms | Rubella rash

Associated symptoms

Typical is a so-called prodromal stage, i.e. a preliminary stage of the disease, before the rubella rash appears. The prodromal stage consists of symptoms such as cough, rhinitis and sore throat. Headache and aching limbs also occur.

The general condition is usually not particularly restricted. A slight temperature increase up to 38°C is also typical. The lymph nodes in the neck and throat may be enlarged, but are painless. In about 50% of those affected, the spleen is also enlarged.

Therapy of the skin rash

Since rubella is caused by a virus, antibiotics are ineffective. However, antiviral drugs against the rubella virus do not exist either, which is why the therapy is purely symptomatic. Fever-reducing agents and anti-inflammatory painkillers are used.

There is also no special therapy for rashes, but this is not necessary either. The rash disappears after about 3 days and heals without any consequences. This is an immune reaction of the body.

Any creams or ointments that promise to eliminate the rash faster are ineffective and should not be used. Even household remedies or similar cannot eliminate the rash. One must think of it as a systemic reaction, i.e. something that comes from inside the body. This disappears as soon as the body’s own immune system has fought off the viral disease.

Duration of the rash

The skin rash of rubella disappears very quickly. Although the duration may vary slightly from patient to patient, it averages about 3 days. The accompanying symptoms may last up to 7 days, and joint pain may continue for several weeks after the rash has healed.

Difference between children and adults

The rash of rubella is not dependent on whether a child or an adult is affected. The typical rubella exanthema shows the same appearance in both children and adults.Slight variations are of course possible from patient to patient. However, it is usually a fine to medium-spotted, reddish skin rash that starts behind the ears and on the head and then spreads to the trunk and limbs.