"What are the initial symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease in infants?"

Initial Symptoms and Treatment of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Young Children

The initial symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease in young children may include fever, oral pain, rash, sore throat, or loss of appetite. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a reputable hospital and manage the condition according to actual circumstances. Below are the symptoms and corresponding management:

1. Fever:

Most children will experience sudden fever, with a body temperature of over 38°C that may persist. The more severe the condition, the higher the body temperature. Accompanying symptoms may include headache, cough, runny nose, and loss of appetite. Medications such as Ibuprofen Suspension or Ibuprofen Granules can be prescribed by doctors to reduce fever.

2. Oral Pain:

Red spots and herpes may appear on the mucous membranes of the cheeks, inside the lips, edges of the tongue, and soft palate. These herpes are prone to rupture, forming ulcers, causing pain during eating, refusal to eat, and drooling. Maintaining oral hygiene is essential, and rinsing with diluted salt water is recommended.

3. Rash:

Herpes may appear within 1-2 days after the onset of fever, visible on the oral mucosa and inside the lips. As the disease progresses, skin maculopapules may appear on the palms, soles, and buttocks, with those on the soles being the most common. It is advisable to use Calamine Lotion under medical supervision for relief.

4. Sore Throat:

Blisters that develop in the mouth may spread to the throat, causing sore throat. A light and healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, with minimal spicy and irritating foods, is recommended.

5. Loss of Appetite:

Some children may also experience fatigue, decreased appetite, and vomiting. Medications such as Oseltamivir Phosphate Granules or Antiviral Oral Solution can be prescribed by doctors to alleviate these symptoms.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an acute, febrile, rash-causing infectious disease primarily caused by enterovirus infections and easily transmitted among children. If these symptoms are observed in children, immediate medical attention and treatment under doctor's guidance are crucial. Additionally, parents should maintain good personal hygiene and precautions to prevent cross-infection.