Symptoms Of Fifth Disease

Headaches

Headaches are another mild symptom associated with the onset of fifth disease. This symptom is usually treated with pain relievers or other medication and goes away on its own. This symptom may also go away without the need for additional treatment. If pain and discomfort are severe, rest and activity restriction may be advised until the symptom lifts. Since this symptom often accompanies other illnesses, a blood test may be requested by the doctor to confirm the presence of parvovirus B19 and the development of fifth disease. Once people get this illness, they are generally immune from getting it again.

A Persistent Rash

One of the most consistent symptoms of fifth disease is a persistent rash that will not go away. A flat or raised red rash that usually occurs on the arms and legs, can last anywhere from two to thirty-nine days on average, that may come with an unbearable itch. Specifically, the rash fades from the center of the red areas towards the edges of the rash, giving a lace-like appearance to the skin. It should be noted that the rash can recur with exercise, warm or hot baths and showers, constant scratching and rubbing of the skin, and anxiety or stress can also provoke a flare-up.

Some rashes are accompanied by other well-known symptoms, such as a headache, sore throat, and joint pain, but it generally does not occur with a flare-up. Not all children with fifth disease also develop this type of rash, as some may have a rash that lasts several weeks or changes with environmental triggers, such as the ones mentioned above.