What is Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease?
Hand-foot-mouth disease (HFM) is caused by the coxsackie virus. As per its name, it causes a characteristic bumpy rash in the mouth and on the hands and feet. These bumps can be painful and make it difficult for your child to eat and drink.
HFM most commonly occurs in children less than 7 years old. Less common symptoms of the disease include:
- fever
- fussiness
- stomach ache
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Complications of HFM are extremely rare, but when they occur they tend to affect the heart and the brain.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease
HFM is diagnosed based on history and physical exam. No blood work is required.
There is no specific treatment for HFM. Management is supportive and includes:
- Encourage hydration,
- Pain control with tylenol and ibuprofen
- Magic mouthwash (maalox, benadryl, viscous lidocaine) is not routinely recommended because it has not been proven to be effective and ingestion of lidocaine can be toxic. Ask your provider if this is appropriate to try this in your child.
See a Doctor in Person If…
- Your child has a fever for greater than 7 days
- Your child cannot drink because of mouth pain
- Your child seems lethargic or unusually tired