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Hand-foot-mouth disease is an illness caused by a virus that results in a distinctive rash - small, blister-like bumps in the mouth, and on the hands and feet. The blisters may also appear in the diaper area and on the legs and arms. The lesions in the mouth usually appear on the tongue, the sides of the cheeks, or near the throat.
Hand-foot-mouth disease is caused by a virus. The most common viruses that cause hand-foot-mouth-disease include the following:
This disease is very common in children, particularly children under the age of 10. It is seen most often in the summer and fall. The virus is usually spread through fecal-oral contact, although other modes of transmission have been reported. Good hand washing is necessary to help prevent the spread of the disease.
The following are the most common symptoms of hand-foot-mouth disease. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Hand-foot-mouth disease is usually diagnosed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child. The rash of hand-foot-mouth disease is unique, and usually allows for a diagnosis simply on physical examination.
Specific treatment for hand-foot-mouth disease will be determined by your child's physician based on:
The goal of treatment for hand-foot-mouth disease is to help decrease the severity of the symptoms. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective. Treatment may include:
Proper hand washing is essential in helping to prevent the disease from being spread to other children.
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