Question
Can hand, foot, and mouth disease cause nail loss?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease can indeed lead to nail loss. This is because the virus that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease can attack the peripheral nerves, thereby affecting nail growth. Typically, this condition occurs within 1 to 2 months after infection. However, no special treatment is needed; it is sufficient to provide the child with regional moisturizing and consider giving vitamin B12 to help nourish the surrounding nerves. Approximately half a month to a month later, the nails will begin to regrow.