Although
it sounds like a dangerous disease you get from animals, Hand, Foot
and Mouth disease (Coxsackie disease) is actually a fairly benign
problem that is commonly seen in young children. The name represents
the usual location of the rashes it produces. It's characterized by
fever and is also contagiousness hence should prompt further awareness
by parents.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hand, Foot And Mouth
Disease?
This disease is characterized by sores found on the inside of the
mouth that blister and form small yellow ulcers. Flat red sores may
develop on the soles of the feet as well as on the palms of the hands.
These lesions often start out as red in color and then turn into gray
vesicles with a red base. These lesions are not itchy or painful and
may not even be noticeable. Other symptoms include fever, feeling
of tiredness and poor appetite, but a majority of patients often surprisingly
do not experience any symptoms at all. It's most commonly seen in
kids less than ten years of age, but has been seen in adults as well.
It commonly occurs in the late summer and early fall. Besides the
rashes on the extremities and the mouth, they are also seen commonly
on the buttocks.
What Causes Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease?
The virus responsible is known as the Coxsackie Viruses, most notably
Coxsackie Virus Type A16. They are part of a class known as Enteroviruses.
It is usually spread by hand to hand contact or stool to saliva transmission.
How Is Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease Diagnosed?
Usually your doctor will have to differentiate Hand, Foot and Mouth
Disease from other diseases that also manifest ulcers (such as those
from herpesviruses). Usually ulcerative diseases have other symptoms
involved so it's fairly easy to tell. If the diagnosis is still in
question, a throat swab may be performed. Blood work is usually not
required if hand, foot and mouth disease is suspected.
How Is Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment other than treating
the symptoms. This involves acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fevers. Mouth
sores are probably the most problematic symptom, leading to children
refusing to eat or drink due to the pain. Numbing ointments used for
teething may temporarily ease the pain. Have your child drink cool
drinks (such as milk), while avoiding citrus juices, which can sting
them.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease usually resolve's itself within a week.
Most often it's not needed for a child to see a doctor if symptoms
are mild, as it rarely causes serious side effects. Uncontrolled fevers
and signs of dehydration require prompt evaluation by a physician.
Antibiotics will not help treat hand foot and mouth disease at all.
Children with hand foot and mouth disease are advised to stay home
for at least the initial few days of the illness, when they are most
contagious. Washing hands can definitely make a difference. Prevention
is paramount including laundering soiled clothes, as well as the importance
of teaching children good hygiene techniques.
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