Hand, foot, and mouth disease
A condition that commonly affects children and adults alike is hand, foot, and mouth disease. In 7 to 10 days, it typically gets better on its own.
Verify to see if the condition is hand, foot, and mouth
This condition can first show these symptoms:
- A stomach ache
- Increased temperature
- Hesitant to eat
Mouth ulcers and a rash will occur after a couple of days. Hand, foot, and mouth illnesses can occur more than once.
Although they can be harsher in infants and children under five, the symptoms are typically the same in adults and children.
Self-care for hand, foot, and mouth disease
You cannot treat hand, foot, and mouth illnesses with antibiotics or other medications. In 7 to 10 days, it typically gets better on its own.
To alleviate the signs:
- Avoid drinking acidic beverages like fruit juice to prevent dehydration
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, and stay away from spicy and hot dishes
- To relieve a sore throat or mouth, take ibuprofen or paracetamol
When to consult a doctor
See a doctor if:
- You or your child gets a very high temperature or feels shiveringly hot after 7 to 10 days pass without an improvement in symptoms
- You’re concerned regarding your child’s symptoms
- Your youngster is dehydrated if they are not urinating as frequently as they usually do
- Gets hand, foot, and mouth illness while you’re pregnant
People can contract hand, foot, and mouth diseases from you.
How to stop spreading
It is easy to spread hand, foot, and mouth disease to others. It applies to sneezes, coughs, poop, and the fluid from blisters.
To lessen the chance of spreading:
- Frequently wash your hands
- When you cough or sneeze, use tissues to capture any germs
- Immediately throw used tissues in the trash
- Avoid sharing household things like cups and silverware, as well as towels
- Use a hot wash cycle to clean dirty bedding and clothes
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022