Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Overview Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that is characterized by the development of blisters or sores on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. The infection is caused by a group …

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Overview

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that is characterized by the development of blisters or sores on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. The infection is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses and is most common in young children, although it can occur in people of all ages. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is highly contagious and is spread through close contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, and feces, from an infected person. The virus can also be spread by touching objects or surfaces contaminated with respiratory secretions, such as doorknobs or toys.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease can vary in severity, but the most common symptoms include:

  • Sores in the mouth: The most common symptom of hand, foot, and mouth disease is the development of small, painful blisters or sores in the mouth, which may be accompanied by fever and sore throat. The sores may appear on the tongue, gums, or inside of the cheeks.
  • Rash on the hands and feet: A rash may also develop on the hands and feet, which may be accompanied by fever and aching muscles. The rash may appear as small, red bumps that eventually blister and crust over.
  • Other symptoms: Other common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease include fatigue, loss of appetite, and irritability. Children may also experience a loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty sleeping.

Causes

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses. The most common cause of the disease is the coxsackievirus, which is highly contagious and is spread through close contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, and feces, from an infected person. The virus can also be spread by touching objects or surfaces contaminated with respiratory secretions, such as doorknobs or toys.

Children are more prone to hand, foot, and mouth disease because their immune systems are still developing and they are more likely to be exposed to the virus through close contact with other children in schools and daycare centers. Children who attend daycare or who have siblings are also more prone to hand, foot, and mouth disease, as they are more likely to be exposed to the virus and other respiratory infections.

Treatment

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is generally a mild illness that resolves on its own within a week or two. However, there are some things that can be done to help alleviate the symptoms and prevent complications.

  • Over-the-counter pain medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used to reduce fever and discomfort associated with the sores in the mouth. It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the medication label and not give aspirin to children, as it has been linked to a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.
  • Home remedies: Home remedies such as using a soft toothbrush to brush the teeth and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can help alleviate the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease. Drinking cold liquids and eating soft, cool foods, such as popsicles or yogurt, can also help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with the sores in the mouth.
  • Avoid acidic or spicy foods: Children with hand, foot, and mouth disease should avoid acidic or spicy foods, as they can irritate the sores in the mouth and make the symptoms worse.
  • If the child is experiencing severe symptoms or if complications arise, a healthcare provider may recommend additional treatment, such as antiviral medications or a referral to a specialist.

Prevention

  • There is no sure way to prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease, but there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting the virus:
  • Wash hands frequently: Proper hand hygiene is essential to preventing the spread of infections. Children should be taught to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after blowing their nose or touching their face.
  • Avoid close contact with infected people: Children who are sick with hand, foot, and mouth disease should stay home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious to prevent spreading the virus to others. Children who are not sick should avoid close contact with people who are sick with hand, foot, and mouth disease or other respiratory illness.
  • Disinfect surfaces: Surfaces and objects that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, toys, and countertops, should be regularly disinfected to help reduce the risk of infection.

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