Question
My son is 4 years old and has been feeling unwell recently. The hospital diagnosed him with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. I’ve heard that this disease may lead to encephalitis. Is this true? What are the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease that may lead to encephalitis?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is caused by a virus. Symptoms that may indicate encephalitis include fever, hand, foot, and mouth blisters, nausea, vomiting, and headache. If symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headache occur, it is important to seek medical attention promptly for further examination.Brain Electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain CT scans may be required for diagnosis, followed by symptomatic treatment. For encephalitis, antiviral medications can be used in conjunction with symptomatic treatment based on clinical symptoms.