Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection in children. This infection is characterized by red blisters or sores in the mouth, throat, and on the body. Although this disease can affect people of all ages, children under the age of five are most at risk because it is spread through contact at schools and childcare centers. Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is an extremely contagious viral infection. It is easily spread through unwashed hands, saliva, mucus, or fluid from the blisters. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease or vaccine to prevent it. However, most symptoms clear up within a week for a full recovery. 

Contact our skin experts at Trillium Creek Dermatology for help with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.

What Causes Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is caused by a strain of coxsackievirus. This virus is part of a group of viruses called enteroviruses. Other types of viruses in this group can also cause Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease. The virus can easily spread through contact with people. Adults and children can contract this disease through:

• Fluid from blisters
• Saliva
• Feces
• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Unwashed hands 
• Contact with surfaces that have traces of the virus

It is very important to continuously wash your hands when in public areas or around people with this disease. 

Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease causes red blisters with a small bubble of fluid. Often these blisters peel, leaving an ulcer. A rash may appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Occasionally, children may also get a pink rash on the buttocks or thighs. It can be difficult sometimes to tell if a young child has HFM. Some other symptoms they may experience are:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Excessive swelling
• Irritable

Treatments for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Cold foods like ice cream, smoothies, and popsicles help to numb the mouth and throat and relieve the pain from the blisters. You can also give your children acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with aches. We can also prescribe topical ointments.