Question
I noticed a white blister on my hand. This morning, I saw a white blister on my hand, so I went to the hospital for a check-up and confirmed it as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). I want to know how to treat HFMD and what are the risks? How can I treat my son’s HFMD?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is an infectious disease caused by enterovirus, primarily spread through the digestive and respiratory tracts as well as close contact, most commonly affecting children, especially those under three years old. Its clinical manifestations include fever, rash on the mouth and extremities, and in severe cases, meningitis, encephalitis, poliomyelitis, pulmonary edema, and abnormal nervous system function. For mild cases of HFMD, we recommend adequate rest and maintaining good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing and ventilation. Additionally, opt for light and easily digestible foods for meals and pay attention to oral and skin care. Drinking plenty of water helps to expel toxins from the body and accelerate the recovery process. As for treatment methods, there is currently no specific medication available for the treatment of HFMD; therefore, symptomatic treatment and supportive care are mainly adopted. For pain and fever, antipyretic and analgesic drugs can be used to relieve symptoms. During the treatment period, parents should closely monitor their child’s condition and seek medical attention promptly. In terms of prevention, it is important to maintain cleanliness of both indoor and outdoor environments and frequently open windows for ventilation. Avoid close contact with individuals who have HFMD, particularly avoiding contact with the patient’s saliva, sputum, vomit, and feces. Also, educate children to develop good personal hygiene habits such as frequent hand washing, not spitting on the ground, and avoiding sharing utensils or cups with other patients. In summary, HFMD is a common infectious disease, but most mild infections can resolve spontaneously through rest and proper care. If symptoms are severe or persist for a prolonged period, it is advisable to seek medical treatment promptly.