Patient's question:
My child is over 3 years old. Recently, I noticed small blisters on his hands, which are a bit itchy. I suspect it might be hand, foot, and mouth disease.Previous treatment and effectiveness: Last year, he also had this condition. At that time, he had poor appetite, and it was indeed hand, foot, and mouth disease.
What kind of help is needed: How should it be treated, and how severe is it? Thank you.
Doctor's answer:
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious childhood illness also known as eruptive vesicular stomatitis. It frequently occurs in children under the age of 5 and can cause blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth. In rare cases, it may lead to complications such as myocarditis, pulmonary edema, or aseptic meningitis and encephalitis. In severe cases, if the condition progresses rapidly, it may become life-threatening. The main clinical diagnostic symptom of HFMD is the formation of ulcers after blisters or breaks in the skin of the hands, feet, and mouth.HFMD is a contagious illness caused by enteroviruses, with over 20 different types known to cause it. Among these, CoxA16 (Coxsackievirus A16) and EV71 (Enterovirus 71) are the most common.
Recommendations:
- Wash hands thoroughly, drink hot water, eat nutritious foods, keep the environment well-ventilated, and dry bedding in the sun.
- Spring and summer are high seasons for enterovirus transmission, so it is essential to maintain good environmental, food, and personal hygiene.
- Avoid drinking unboiled water and eating raw or cold foods. Wash hands before and after meals. Ensure adequate indoor air circulation.
- Minimize taking infants and young children to crowded places.
- Breastfeeding mothers should bathe frequently, change clothes often, and clean their nipples before changing diapers.
The above advice is for the question, "How to prevent and treat HFMD in children." I hope it helps. Wishing you good health!