"What Are the Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? How Is It Treated?"

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a common contagious illness primarily affecting children. It is caused by enteroviruses and spreads through contact with the mouth, hands, and feet. The symptoms and treatments of HFMD are outlined below:

Symptoms of HFMD

1. Fever: The initial symptom of HFMD is typically fever, with a temperature ranging from 37-38°C. The fever may last for 1-2 days, followed by the appearance of blisters.
2. Blisters: The characteristic symptom of HFMD is the presence of blisters, which usually appear on the mouth, hands, and feet, and may also occur on the buttocks. These blisters are round or oval, approximately 2-4mm in diameter, with a red halo around them.
3. Mouth Ulcers: HFMD patients develop mouth ulcers on the tip of the tongue, cheek mucosa, and hard palate. These ulcers can cause pain, affecting the patient's ability to eat.
4. Rash: Some HFMD patients experience a rash on their arms, legs, and torso. The rash is irregularly shaped and can be light red or skin-colored.
5. Other Symptoms: Some HFMD patients may also experience symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and fatigue.

Treatment Methods for HFMD

1. Symptomatic Treatment: For patients with fever, physical cooling or appropriate use of antipyretic medication can be administered. For mouth ulcers, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be prescribed.
2. Antiviral Treatment: As HFMD is caused by a virus, there are currently no specific antiviral drugs available. Generally, HFMD patients do not require antiviral therapy. However, in severe cases, doctors may consider using antiviral drugs based on the patient's condition.
3. Maintaining Oral Hygiene: HFMD patients should keep their mouths clean to prevent bacterial infections. They can rinse their mouths with warm water and avoid spicy or irritating foods.
4. Nutrition and Hydration: HFMD patients should consume sufficient nutrition and hydration to aid in their recovery. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water are recommended.
5. Rest: HFMD patients should ensure adequate rest to facilitate recovery. Avoiding strenuous exercise can prevent worsening of symptoms.
6. Preventing Infection: Given the highly contagious nature of HFMD, patients should maintain good personal hygiene, wash their hands frequently, and avoid contact with others. Additionally, regularly disinfecting utensils and towels used by patients is crucial.

In summary, the main symptoms of HFMD include fever, blisters, and mouth ulcers. Treatment involves symptomatic care, antiviral therapy (in severe cases), maintaining oral hygiene, providing adequate nutrition and hydration, resting, and preventing infection. During periods of high HFMD incidence, parents should closely monitor their children's health and seek prompt treatment for any signs of HFMD.