Question
How should I treat my son who was diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease last Friday? Are there any effective medications?
Answer
The main principle of treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease is symptomatic therapy. Antiviral medications, cooling and detoxifying Chinese herbs, and vitamins B and C can be taken. Patients with complications may receive intramuscular injections of intravenous immunoglobulin. During the illness, it is important to enhance the child’s care and maintain good oral hygiene. Before and after defecation, the face should be washed with physiological saline or warm water. Foods should be non-irritating, such as liquids and semi-liquids. Hand, foot, and mouth disease can lead to complications such as myocarditis, encephalitis, meningitis, and flaccid paralysis.