All You Need to Know About Treatment for Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by the coxsackie virus and is commonly contracted by children. It is usually spread through the feces, saliva, and nasal secretions of an infected person. While it does not usually cause severe illness or complications, it can lead to significant discomfort and disruption of daily life for both children and adults. In this article, we will explore all that you need to know about the treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease.
Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
The symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease usually appear within three to five days after exposure to the virus. The characteristic symptoms of the disease include fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and skin rash. The mouth sores appear as small, painful blisters on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks. The skin rash appears as red spots or blisters on the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, and the sides of the fingers and toes.
Treatment for Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
There is no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease. The disease usually resolves on its own within seven to ten days. However, there are several things that you can do to relieve the symptoms of the disease and speed up the healing process.
1. Rest and Hydration
One of the most important things to do when treating hand, foot and mouth disease is to rest and stay hydrated. The disease can cause significant fatigue and dehydration, which can lead to further complications. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water and rest as much as possible.
2. Pain Relief
The sores and rash associated with hand, foot and mouth disease can be very painful. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate the discomfort. It is important to follow the instructions on the package carefully and not to exceed the recommended dosage.
3. Topical Treatment
Topical treatments such as numbing sprays or ointments can also be effective in relieving the pain associated with the mouth sores. These should be used only under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as some topical treatments may not be safe for young children.
Prevention of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Preventing hand, foot and mouth disease is essential, particularly in places like schools and daycares where the disease can spread quickly. The following are some tips to help prevent the spread of the disease:
1. Practice Good Hygiene
Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently, particularly after using the bathroom or before eating. It is also important to avoid sharing utensils or cups with other people.
2. Disinfect Surfaces
The virus that causes hand, foot and mouth disease can live on surfaces for several days. Be sure to disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, toys, and phones regularly.
3. Keep Sick Children at Home
If your child is sick, keep them at home until they are no longer contagious. This can help to prevent the spread of the disease to other children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hand, foot and mouth disease can be an uncomfortable and disruptive illness, particularly for young children. However, with the right treatment, you can help to alleviate the symptoms and encourage a speedy recovery. Additionally, practicing good hygiene and taking steps to prevent the spread of the disease can help to keep yourself and your family healthy.
