Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a prevalent viral illness, primarily affecting young children. It’s characterized by the emergence of painful red blisters, notably in and around the mouth, as well as on the hands, feet, and sometimes the diaper area. The most common culprit behind hand foot and mouth disease is the coxsackievirus, though other enteroviruses can also cause it.
This illness is highly contagious, spreading easily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or bodily fluids. Transmission routes include unwashed hands, fecal matter, saliva, nasal mucus, and fluid from the characteristic blisters of hand foot mouth disease. Children under the age of 7 are particularly susceptible to HFMD, making environments like daycare centers, preschools, schools, and summer camps, where close proximity is common, hotspots for infection.
Beyond the distinctive blisters, individuals with hand foot and mouth disease frequently experience a fever lasting several days. Dehydration is also a significant concern, as the mouth sores can make swallowing, especially liquids, painful and difficult. Typically, the symptoms of hand foot and mouth disease resolve within a week to ten days, with patients making a full recovery.
Currently, there is no specific cure for hand foot and mouth disease, nor is there a vaccine available to prevent it. Treatment focuses on supportive care and managing symptoms at home to ensure the child’s comfort throughout the recovery process.
What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
The hallmark symptom of hand foot and mouth disease is the appearance of distinctive blisters. These blisters are typically red with a small, fluid-filled bubble on top. As they progress, these blisters often rupture, leaving behind ulcers – open sores with a reddish base. On the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, a rash may develop, manifesting as flat red spots or evolving into red blisters.
In some cases, a non-itchy, pink rash may appear on other areas of the body, such as the buttocks and thighs. However, it’s important to note that some children with hand foot and mouth disease might only exhibit sores in the back of the throat, a condition known as herpangina.
Diagnosing hand foot and mouth disease can be challenging for parents, especially in very young children, if the sores are confined to the mouth or throat. Infants and toddlers may not be able to effectively communicate throat pain. However, a significant indicator of a problem is when a child refuses to eat or drink, or shows a decreased appetite for both food and liquids. This reluctance can be a key sign of discomfort and potential hand foot and mouth disease.
In addition to mouth sores and rash, a child with hand foot and mouth disease might also present with:
- Fever, muscle aches, or other flu-like symptoms, indicating the body’s response to the viral infection.
- Increased irritability, fussiness, or a tendency to sleep more than usual, reflecting general malaise.
- Drooling, which is often a consequence of painful swallowing due to mouth sores.
- Preference for only cold fluids, as they can provide temporary relief from mouth pain.
- Abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea, although less common, these gastrointestinal symptoms can occur in some cases of hand foot and mouth disease.
How Is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease Treated?
Managing hand foot and mouth disease primarily involves alleviating symptoms, as there is no direct antiviral treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered to children experiencing aches, pains, or irritability. It is crucial to remember never to give aspirin to children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Soothing sore throats and mouth pain is essential. Cold foods and drinks, like ice cream, smoothies, and popsicles, can offer significant relief by numbing the affected areas. These can be particularly appealing to children struggling with swallowing. Conversely, it’s advisable to avoid hot drinks, sodas, and acidic foods such as citrus juices and tomato sauce, as these can exacerbate the pain of mouth sores.
For blisters on the hands and feet associated with hand foot and mouth disease, maintaining cleanliness and keeping them uncovered is recommended. Gently wash the affected skin with lukewarm soapy water and pat it dry. If a blister happens to rupture, applying a small amount of antibiotic ointment can help prevent secondary bacterial infections. Covering it with a small bandage can also provide protection.
Ensuring adequate hydration is paramount during hand foot and mouth disease. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which can be a significant complication, especially when swallowing is painful.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
While hand foot and mouth disease is typically mild and self-limiting, it’s important to know when to seek professional medical advice. Contact your doctor if your child exhibits concerning symptoms such as persistent irritability, inconsolability, lethargy, or if their condition appears to be worsening. Additionally, be vigilant for signs of dehydration, including a dry or sticky mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urine output, or fewer wet diapers than usual. These symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation.
Can Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Be Prevented?
Preventing the spread of hand foot and mouth disease relies heavily on hygiene practices and minimizing contact with infected individuals. To limit transmission, it’s essential to keep children home from school or childcare facilities while they have a fever or have open blisters, whether on the skin or in the mouth. This helps to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.
Hand washing is the cornerstone of hand foot and mouth disease prevention. Instruct and remind all family members to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or consuming food. In childcare settings, regular cleaning and disinfection of shared surfaces and toys are crucial. Many viruses, including those that cause hand foot and mouth disease, can survive on objects for extended periods, sometimes for days. Disinfecting frequently touched items can significantly reduce the risk of transmission in these environments.
