Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Get in touch with Dr. Mary Strength of Pediatric Health Care Associates if your child needs treatment for hand foot and mouth disease in Waxahachie, TX. This uncomfortable condition is fairly common and can be treated, so your child doesn't have to suffer.

What Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

 Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a fairly common viral infection among children caused by the coxsackievirus. This highly contagious infection is more common in children because they often don't have the best hygiene habits. If your child grabs an object contaminated by the coxsackievirus and puts their hand in their mouth without washing it, they could get sick. An infected individual can also spread the virus through coughing or sneezing. Unfortunately, young kids aren't always mindful of covering their mouths whenever they cough or sneeze.

The coxsackievirus may also be present in a baby's poop. When someone changes a baby's diaper and makes accidental contact with their poop, they may smear it on a different surface, allowing the virus to spread. Preventing the spread of HFMD is another reason to carefully maintain a changing area’s cleanliness.

Symptoms associated with HFMD include blisters that form in and around the mouth. Rashes may also appear on an infected child's hands and feet. Notably, those rashes aren't typically itchy. Because of this viral infection, your child may also develop a fever and a sore throat.

Although the coxsackievirus can infect adults, they often don't present symptoms. HFMD is mostly an issue for children under the age of seven.

Effectively treat your child's hand foot and mouth disease in Waxahachie, TX, by seeking assistance from Dr. Strength of Pediatric Health Care Associates.

What Are the Treatment Options for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

 Children can recover from hand, foot, and mouth disease after a week or so, but during that time, the symptoms can become uncomfortable. Don't hesitate to consult a pediatrician if your child is struggling with the symptoms of HFMD. Your child's pediatrician can prescribe treatment to support your child's healing and symptom management.

Some kids may also struggle with hydration because of HFMD. While your child recovers, make sure they stay hydrated by giving them plenty of fluids to drink.

The best way to deal with HFMD is to prevent exposure. Discourage your child from putting their hand in their mouth so they are less susceptible to the infection caused by coxsackievirus. Kids who frequently wash their hands are also less likely to be infected.

Call (972) 937-1221 and schedule hand foot and mouth disease treatment in Waxahachie, TX, with Dr. Strength of Pediatric Health Care Associates.