Question
My son is 4 years old. A few days ago, he felt unwell and went to the hospital for a check-up. They said he had hand, foot, and mouth disease. The doctor prescribed medication and we went home. I heard that this disease can lead to encephalitis. Is this true? What symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease can lead to encephalitis?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a viral infection. If hand, foot, and mouth disease leads to encephalitis, fever may occur along with the symptom of rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. Additionally, nausea, vomiting, and headache may also be present. If symptoms such as nausea and vomiting and headache appear, it is recommended to go to the hospital for further examination. Consider undergoing Brain Electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain CT scans for diagnosis. Treatment for encephalitis can include antiviral medications and symptomatic treatment based on clinical symptoms.