Patient's question:
The baby had been experiencing recurrent low-grade fever accompanied by small rashes and oral ulcers. After visiting the hospital for treatment, there was some improvement. However, a few days later, it was noticed that the baby was lacking energy. A thorough examination at the hospital revealed that the complications were caused by inadequate care for hand, foot, and mouth disease, leading to encephalitis. How is encephalitis caused by hand, foot, and mouth disease treated?Doctor's answer:
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by enteroviruses and commonly occurs in children under the age of 5, presenting with mouth pain, anorexia, low fever, and small vesicles or ulcers on the hands, feet, and mouth. Encephalitis is a complication of hand, foot, and mouth disease and can occur in people of all genders and ages. The main symptoms include high fever, headache, nausea, confusion, and convulsions. Encephalitis should be treated comprehensively based on its underlying causes, with particular emphasis on controlling intracranial hypertension, high fever, and recurrent convulsions. Patients in a state of confusion must maintain a clear airway.Symptomatic treatment:
(1) Hydrocortisone or dexamethasone is added to 5% glucose solution for intravenous infusion. The dosage should be gradually increased, with the course of treatment not exceeding one month.
(2) Dehydration treatment duration depends on the severity of the condition.