Patient's question:
Doctor, my child is over two years old this year. He recently got hand, foot, and mouth disease. After seeing a doctor at the county hospital, we felt it didn't help much, and he wasn't getting better. As parents, we are almost heartbroken and don't know what to do. Should we go to a bigger hospital?Doctor's answer:
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a viral infection and is primarily related to poor hygiene. Treatment should be under the guidance of a doctor, with oral antiviral medications. If the condition is severe, intravenous infusion may be necessary. It's important to ensure the child drinks plenty of fluids, maintains warmth, and avoids getting cold. Appropriate intake of vegetables and fruits is recommended. Avoid taking the child to crowded places. The course of the disease is generally around one week, and it can be complemented with traditional Chinese medicine treatments such as clearing heat and detoxifying.