Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that primarily affects young children. Characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet, it can cause significant discomfort but is generally not a serious condition. You want to make sure that you understand this illness so that you know when to get your child help and how you can avoid it. Dr. David Yip at Angel Pediatrics in Anthem, AZ, can explain what hand, foot, and mouth disease is and what you may need to know about it. 

Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease 

HFMD typically begins with a mild fever and general feelings of discomfort. Within a day or two, painful sores may develop in your child’s mouth, which can make eating and drinking difficult. A red rash, sometimes with blister-like spots, appears on the hands, feet, and occasionally the buttocks and legs. Other symptoms can include sore throat, loss of appetite, and irritability in infants and toddlers. 

HFMD is caused by viruses, and it spreads through close personal contact, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated objects and surfaces. The virus is highly contagious, especially during the first week of illness. 

While there is no treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician in Anthem, AZ, about relieving your child’s symptoms. There is no treatment for HFMD, but you can help reduce fever and pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. You should also encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids and rest. 

To prevent HFMD, you can teach your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. Be sure to regularly clean and disinfect toys, doorknobs, and other commonly touched surfaces. Keep infected children home from school or daycare to prevent the spread of the virus to others. 

Contact Our Pediatrician Today 

Make sure you know how to help your child with HFMD. Contact Dr. Yip at Angel Pediatrics in Anthem, AZ, to learn more about hand, foot, and mouth disease and how it could affect your child. Call for more information at (623) 551-0442.