Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFM), is usually caused by the coxsackievirus. It can be as severe as the flu or a bad cold, but not as severe as the common cold.
It is contagious, and can be very unpleasant and uncomfortable for children. HFM is most common in children aged 5 to 10, and occasionally as young as 10. HFM can occasionally be contracted by adults, but it is more common in children under five years old.
Incubation is the time between infection and symptoms. It can take three to six days. HFM is most contagious within the first week of symptoms, but it can also be contagious for several days or weeks after recovery.
Important to remember that hand, foot, or mouth disease is not the exact same thing as foot and mouth (aka foot and mouth) disease. This is a separate disease that affects farm animals.
Signs of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFM can sometimes be confused with chicken pox or strep throat so it is important to keep an eye out for symptoms.
Early signs include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Reduced appetite
- General feeling of being sick
Painful sores (which can turn into blisters) may develop within a few days after the fever starts. Red sores, flat, or reddish-colored, often appear on the hands or feet. They may also be found in the elbow, knee, elbow, and buttocks. These sores/rashes can become blisters, which are usually painful but not itchy.
Dehydration can be a side effect of sores in the mouth that can make infants and children hesitant to drink.
Although hand, foot and mouth are not usually dangerous, HFM can occur in rare cases. It is also possible for children to lose their fingernails or toenails after they have recovered from hand, foot, or mouth. This can be quite alarming. This is often temporary and the nails grow back quickly. This may be the only sign of an infection in mild cases.
How to avoid hand, foot, and mouth:
HFM can spread through bodily fluids and close contact. HFM is more common in children in childcare settings, as they often share close quarters with other children. Young children are known to be very picky eaters and will put everything in their mouths. ).
It’s a good idea for your family to put HFM prevention in place if someone in your circle has it. Avoid contact with sick people or infected objects (like tissues) and wash your hands often.
One study also found that exclusive breastfeeding is protective against HFM infections.
There are other ways to prevent hand, foot and mouth infections:
- vitamin C
- vitamin D
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- healthy diet
- Maintaining toys and surfaces clean
Anti-Inflammatory Remedies for the Hand, Foot, And Mouth:
Antibiotics will not work because it is a viral infection. HFM is often mild so treatment is more about comforting the patient and strengthening the immune system.
Hydration:
Dehydration is a serious concern. Make sure the child has enough fluids. You can offer homemade popsicles with elderberries and coconut water to children who aren’t interested in drinking. The cold popsicle will soothe sores and provide fluid for the child. Electrolyte beverages, herbal drinks, coconut water, and Bone broth are all ways to increase hydration.
Healthy Foods:
Food is not a concern when there are illnesses. It’s better for the body to concentrate on healing than on digestion. However, it’s important to eat the best quality and most nutritious foods the child can ingest. Bone broth is a great example because it not only soothes the throat and mouth, but also has a lot more nutrients. Coconut oil is another food that can make a huge impact on healing. It’s antiviral, can fight the virus and is great for healing sores. Avoid acidic foods, which can further irritate your mouth sores.
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