Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects young children, although it can also affect adults in rare cases. The disease gets its name from the characteristic symptoms it causes in the mouth, hands, and feet. Below is information about hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), including its symptoms, causes, and treatments.
Cause: Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by several types of viruses from the Enterovirus family, the most common being Coxsackievirus A16. This infection is highly contagious and spreads primarily through direct contact with the nasal and oral secretions of an infected person, as well as through contact with infected feces.
Symptoms: Typical symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease include:
Blisters and Mouth Ulcers: Small, painful blisters appear on the throat, tongue, and inside of the cheeks. These blisters break open and become open ulcers.
Skin Rash: On the hands and feet, skin rashes may appear that look like small red spots that may turn into blisters.
Fever: It may accompany the initial symptoms.
Sore throat: It may cause a sore throat and difficulty swallowing due to blisters in the throat.
Irritability and General Malaise: Young children may be unusually irritable due to discomfort caused by blisters and fever.
Treatment: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral illness that usually resolves on its own in about a week. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, and may include:
Hydration: It is important to stay well hydrated, especially if there are painful blisters in your mouth that make it difficult to drink fluids.
Medicines for Fever and Pain: Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce fever and relieve pain.
Mouthwash: Rinsing your mouth with warm, saline water may provide temporary relief from mouth blisters.
Skin Care: Keeping your skin clean and dry can help prevent secondary infections from skin rashes.
Rest: Resting and avoiding close contact with others during illness helps prevent the spread of infection.
It is important to remember that while hand, foot and mouth virus can be uncomfortable and annoying, it rarely results in serious complications. However, if you have concerns about your symptoms or if the illness seems to be getting worse, it is advisable to consult a doctor or a professional health care for proper evaluation and treatment guidance.
If you have any questions, visit us at our dental clinic in Sa Coma.
