Question
How can hand, foot, and mouth disease be diagnosed?
Answer
The diagnosis of hand, foot, and mouth disease typically relies on the patient’s symptoms, which include the appearance of small blisters or ulcers in the mouth, hands, and feet. However, to confirm the diagnosis, doctors may conduct some tests, such as blood tests or viral cultures. Currently, there is no specific effective treatment, and the main approach is to provide general supportive therapy and symptomatic treatment. Antiviral drugs such as iododeoxyuridine nucleotide, arabinoside, and acyclovir can be used, as well as broad-spectrum antiviral drugs like interferon. Traditional Chinese medicine may also help alleviate symptoms and shorten the course of the disease.