Patient's question:
The child has had poor appetite since yesterday. There are one or two small red blisters on their hands. They had a fever of 38.5°C at night. After taking fever-reducing medication, they haven't had a fever since. Their appetite is okay. There are small red blisters on both sides of their mouth, but not on their tongue. Since yesterday morning, the doctor suspects it might be hand, foot, and mouth disease.Doctor's answer:
Hand, foot, and mouth disease refers to the occurrence of blisters on the mouth, hands, and buttocks, usually accompanied by fever. It is most commonly caused by viral infections, although there are also a few cases of severe bacterial infections.Guidelines:
Hand, foot, and mouth disease requires a blood test to check for bacterial, viral, or mycoplasma infections. Treatment should be symptomatic based on the blood test results. If the test indicates a severe infection, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous fluid treatment. A light diet and easily digestible foods are recommended.