Patient's question:
These days, my boss said I'm not in good spirits and it's affecting my work performance. Actually, I didn't mean to, either. I always can't sleep at night, sometimes feel anxious and uncomfortable. If it gets serious, I'm worried it will affect my health and work. What is hand, foot, and mouth disease?Doctor's answer:
This disease is not specifically recorded in ancient Chinese medical texts, but based on its symptoms and characteristics, it appears to fall under the categories of "warm disease," "damp-heat," and "epidemic" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is classified as an excess and heat-pattern condition, with treatment methods including dispersing wind and clearing heat, calming the heart and draining fire, clearing summer-heat and resolving dampness, and nourishing yin to lower qi.In clinical observations, this disease, besides the skin rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth, often presents with additional symptoms such as fever, bad breath, drooling, refusal to eat, irritability, constipation or irregular bowel movements, a red tongue with a yellow coating, a slippery and rapid pulse, or purplish and stagnant fingertip lines. These are primarily caused by external pathogens like seasonal viruses and internal damp-heat accumulation in the spleen and stomach. Treatment should focus on clearing heat and draining the spleen, as well as detoxifying and cooling the blood.
During the acute phase, a self-prescribed formula called "Clearing Heat and Draining the Spleen Decoction" can be used. This formula has the functions of clearing heat and detoxifying, cooling the blood and promoting rash resolution, and drying dampness to alleviate restlessness. When using this formula, it is important to stop treatment once the condition improves to prevent overuse of bitter and cold herbs, which may harm the spleen and stomach. Instead, transition to herbs that regulate the spleen, promote movement, and clear heat once the fever subsides, the rashes shrink, and other accompanying symptoms ease. The goal is to expel pathogens without harming the body's essence, ensuring recovery while maintaining balance.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures primarily involve isolating affected children and strengthening hygiene and healthcare for infants and young children to reduce the risk of infection. This is particularly important for early childhood education institutions. Additionally, ensure good air circulation and maintain a comfortable temperature in indoor environments.