What are the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease?
The symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease usually appear within a few days of being infected and may include:
- Sores in the mouth, which can be painful
- A rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
What causes hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by different viruses, most commonly enteroviruses. It spreads easily from person to person, often through close contact, such as hugging or sharing utensils.
How common is hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is quite common, especially in children under the age of five. It often occurs in outbreaks, particularly in schools and daycare settings.
Who is more likely to get hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Some groups of people are more likely to get hand, foot, and mouth disease, including:
- Young children, especially those under five
- Those with weakened immune systems
How can I treat hand, foot, and mouth disease?
There is no specific treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease, but some measures can help ease the symptoms, such as:
- Giving plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Using pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort
- Encouraging soft foods to make eating easier
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How to live with hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Most people recover from hand, foot, and mouth disease without any long-term issues. It usually lasts for about 7 to 10 days. During recovery, it is important to stay hydrated and rest as needed.
Final thoughts
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common condition that mainly affects young children and usually goes away on its own. If you are concerned about your symptoms or those of your child, it is best to speak to a GP or healthcare provider.
