What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

HFMD is a contagious viral infection that most commonly affects infants and young children under 5 years old (Adults can catch it, too, but it’s far less common). It's highly contagious but typically mild and short-lived.

Common Symptoms

Here are some common hand, foot, and mouth symptoms you might notice in your child:

• Fever: Often one of the first signs.
• Mouth Sores: Painful blisters or ulcers can make eating or drinking difficult.
• Skin Rash: Flat or raised red spots on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks or legs.
• Sore Throat: A frequent early symptom that causes discomfort while swallowing or speaking.
• Fatigue: Your child might seem more tired or irritable than usual.

What Causes HFMD?

The cause of hand, foot, and mouth disease is likely from the enterovirus family, with coxsackievirus A16 being the most common culprit. It spreads easily through:

• Direct contact with the infected person's saliva
• Respiratory droplets
• Contact with contaminated surfaces
• Diaper changing
• Sharing toys or utensils

When to Call a Pediatrician

While most cases of HFMD clear up on their own, there are times when professional care is best.

1. Persistent High Fever

If your child’s fever is above 101°F (38.3°C), lasts more than three days, or doesn’t respond to medication, it’s worth seeking medical attention.

2. Signs of Dehydration

HFMD can make drinking or eating painful, leading to dehydration. Look for:

• Dry mouth or cracked lips.
• Fewer wet diapers or reduced urination.
• Unusual lethargy or irritability.

3. Severe Mouth Sores

Painful mouth ulcers might cause your child to refuse food or liquids. If your child is struggling to stay hydrated, contact your doctor immediately.

4. Worsening or Infected Rash

While rashes are typical with HFMD, monitor for signs of infection like:

• Swelling or increased redness around the spots
• Pus or oozing from the rash

5. Prolonged Symptoms

HFMD usually resolves in 7-10 days. If symptoms persist beyond this or worsen instead of improve, a medical evaluation is recommended.

6. Unusual Symptoms

Though rare, severe complications like difficulty breathing, confusion, or neurological symptoms require immediate medical attention.

By recognizing the early signs of HFMD, you can make sure your child receives the care they need. When in doubt, our Fresno and Clovis pediatricians are just a call away. Your child's health is our priority.

How a Pediatrician Can Help

If you’ve spotted any concerning signs mentioned earlier, it’s time to visit your pediatrician. Here’s how they can help ensure your child is on the road to recovery:

1. Diagnosis: Pinpointing the Problem

Not all rashes or fevers are HFMD. A pediatrician can:

• Confirm whether it’s HFMD or another condition with similar symptoms.
• Rule out more serious illnesses like strep throat or chickenpox.
  
  

2. Treatment: Easing the Symptoms

There’s no specific cure for HFMD, but your pediatrician can:

• Recommend over-the-counter medications to manage fever and pain.
• Suggest safe topical solutions to soothe mouth sores.
• Provide hydration tips to combat dehydration.

3. Guidance: What Comes Next

Your doctor can also help with practical advice, such as:

• Caring at Home: Tips to keep your child comfortable while they recover.
• Preventing Spread: Steps to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other children or family members.
• When to Follow Up: Knowing when to return for a re-evaluation.

With your pediatrician’s expert care, you’ll have peace of mind and a clear plan for your child’s recovery.

Prevention Tips for Parents

While a visit to the pediatrician can help manage HFMD, prevention is always better than cure. Prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease with these simple tips:

✔ Practice Good Hygiene

• Hands should be washed with soap and water frequently, especially after diaper changes or restroom use.
• Teach kids to wash their hands before meals and after playing outside.

✔ Keep Surfaces Clean

• Regularly disinfect toys, doorknobs, and other frequently touched surfaces.
• Don’t forget to wipe down shared items like remote controls or tablet screens.

✔ Avoid Close Contact

• Keep your child home if they’re showing HFMD symptoms
• Avoid sharing utensils, cups, or towels with someone who’s infected.

✔ Teach Healthy Habits

• Teach your kids to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or squeezing.
• Remind them not to touch their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth.

✔ Be Cautious in Crowded Spaces

• HFMD spreads easily in places like daycare centers or playgrounds. Keep an eye on your child’s interactions during outbreaks.

By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce the chances of HFMD affecting your household. And remember, if symptoms arise, your pediatrician is just a call away.

Trust Sang Pediatrics for Your Child’s Health

We understand how worrying it can be when your little one isn’t feeling their best. That’s why our team is here to provide compassionate care, expert guidance, and the reassurance you need during these moments.

That’s why Sang Pediatrics is always here for you, no matter the situation. Whether it’s HFMD or any other health concern, you can count on us to:

• Accurately diagnose and treat your child’s symptoms.
• Offer clear, actionable advice for home care and prevention.
• Be your trusted partner in your child’s health journey.

If you have questions about HFMD or notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with Sang Pediatrics today or give us a call—we’re always happy to help.

Because your child’s health is our priority, we’ll work together to ensure they grow happy, healthy, and thriving.

When in Doubt, Give Us a Shout