Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness, primarily affecting infants and children under 5 years old, but it can occur in adults as well. The mere mention of it can send shivers down parents’ spines, as it’s known for causing uncomfortable symptoms like fever, sore throat, and a characteristic rash. A common question that arises when a child or adult is diagnosed with HFMD is: “Does hand, foot, and mouth disease go away on its own?”. This article will delve into the natural progression of HFMD, exploring its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and what to expect during the illness, to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is primarily caused by viruses belonging to the enterovirus family, most commonly the coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71. These viruses are highly contagious and spread easily through direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva, blister fluid, or stool of an infected person. Sharing toys, close personal contact, coughing, and sneezing are all potential routes of transmission.
The incubation period, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms, is typically 3 to 6 days. During this time, the person may be contagious without even knowing they are infected.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The initial symptoms of HFMD often resemble those of other viral infections, making early diagnosis tricky. Common early signs include:
- Fever (often mild, ranging from 100°F to 102°F)
- Sore throat
- Reduced appetite
- General feeling of being unwell (malaise)
A few days after the initial symptoms, the characteristic rash of HFMD appears. This rash typically consists of small, red spots that may blister. The blisters are usually found on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and inside the mouth. They can also appear on the buttocks, genitals, and elbows, though these locations are less common.
Mouth sores, also known as herpangina, are particularly painful and can make eating and drinking difficult. These sores usually start as small red spots that quickly turn into blisters, which then ulcerate.
Diagnosis of HFMD
Diagnosis of HFMD is usually made based on a physical examination and review of the patient’s symptoms. The characteristic rash and mouth sores are typically enough for a doctor to make a diagnosis. In rare cases, a throat swab or stool sample may be taken to confirm the diagnosis, particularly if the symptoms are atypical or if there is concern about a more serious infection.
The Natural Course of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Thankfully, hand, foot, and mouth disease is usually a self-limiting illness. This means that the body’s immune system can typically fight off the virus on its own, and the illness will resolve without the need for specific antiviral medications.
How Long Does HFMD Last?
The duration of HFMD varies slightly from person to person, but most individuals recover within 7 to 10 days. The fever typically subsides within 1 to 2 days, and the rash and mouth sores start to heal within a week. It’s important to note that even after the symptoms have resolved, the person may still be contagious for several weeks, as the virus can continue to be shed in the stool.
The Body’s Immune Response
When a person is infected with the virus that causes HFMD, their immune system kicks into gear. The body produces antibodies to fight off the virus. These antibodies help to neutralize the virus and prevent it from infecting more cells. Once the virus is cleared from the body, the immune system retains a memory of the virus, providing some level of protection against future infections. However, since HFMD can be caused by different strains of enteroviruses, it is possible to get HFMD more than once.
Treatment and Management of Symptoms
While HFMD usually resolves on its own, there are several things you can do to manage the symptoms and make the affected person more comfortable. The focus of treatment is on relieving pain, reducing fever, and preventing dehydration.
Pain Relief
Mouth sores can be extremely painful, making it difficult to eat and drink. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), can help to reduce pain and fever. It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions carefully, especially when giving medication to children. Aspirin should be avoided in children and teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Topical oral anesthetics, such as those containing benzocaine, can also provide temporary relief from mouth pain. However, these products should be used with caution in young children, as they can potentially cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious blood disorder. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication for a child.
Hydration
Dehydration is a common complication of HFMD, especially in young children who may refuse to eat or drink due to mouth pain. It is crucial to ensure that the affected person stays well-hydrated. Offer cool liquids frequently, such as water, milk, or electrolyte solutions (Pedialyte). Avoid acidic drinks, such as fruit juices, as they can irritate the mouth sores. Popsicles and ice chips can also be soothing and help to keep the person hydrated.
Dietary Considerations
During the acute phase of HFMD, it is best to offer soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow. Avoid foods that are spicy, acidic, or salty, as they can exacerbate the pain of the mouth sores. Good options include:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Smoothies
- Pudding
- Ice cream
Home Remedies
Several home remedies can help to relieve the symptoms of HFMD. Rinsing the mouth with salt water can help to soothe the mouth sores and reduce inflammation. To make a salt water rinse, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water. Gargle the solution for 30 seconds and then spit it out.
Cool compresses can also help to relieve discomfort from the rash. Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas for 10-15 minutes at a time.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While HFMD usually resolves on its own, there are certain situations where medical attention is necessary. Seek medical care if:
- The person has a high fever (over 102°F) or a fever that lasts for more than 3 days.
- The person shows signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or dizziness.
- The person has a stiff neck or severe headache.
- The person experiences seizures.
- The person has difficulty breathing.
- The symptoms worsen or do not improve after 10 days.
- There are signs of secondary infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus around the blisters.
In rare cases, HFMD can lead to more serious complications, such as viral meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). These complications are more likely to occur with certain strains of enteroviruses, such as enterovirus 71.
Preventing the Spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is highly contagious, so it is essential to take steps to prevent its spread. Good hygiene practices are the most effective way to reduce the risk of transmission.
Hygiene Practices
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing food.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys, doorknobs, and countertops.
- Avoid close contact with people who are infected with HFMD.
- Do not share utensils, cups, or towels with others.
Isolation and Exclusion
Children with HFMD should be kept home from school or daycare until their fever is gone and the blisters have dried up. This will help to prevent the spread of the virus to other children. Adults with HFMD should also stay home from work until they are feeling better.
No Vaccine Available
Currently, there is no vaccine available for coxsackievirus A16, the most common cause of HFMD in the United States. However, there is a vaccine available for enterovirus 71, but it is not widely used in the US and is primarily used in some Asian countries where EV-71 infections are more common and tend to cause more severe complications.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Adults
While HFMD is more common in children, adults can also get the disease. In adults, the symptoms are often milder than in children, but they can still be uncomfortable. Some adults may not even realize they have HFMD, as they may only experience mild symptoms.
However, adults can still transmit the virus to others, even if they are not experiencing any symptoms. Therefore, it is important for adults to practice good hygiene habits to prevent the spread of HFMD, especially if they are around children.
Increased Severity in Adults
Although the symptoms are often milder, adults may experience a more severe course of the disease in some cases. They may have a higher fever, more extensive rash, or more painful mouth sores. In rare cases, adults can also develop complications such as viral meningitis or encephalitis.
Differential Diagnosis
It’s important to differentiate HFMD from other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Here are some conditions that might be mistaken for HFMD:
- Chickenpox: Chickenpox also causes a rash with blisters, but the rash is typically more widespread and itchy than the rash of HFMD.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: HSV can cause cold sores around the mouth, which can be confused with the mouth sores of HFMD. However, HSV infections typically only affect the mouth area, while HFMD can affect other parts of the body as well.
- Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions can cause a rash, but the rash is usually itchy and does not typically involve blisters.
- Impetigo: Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that can cause sores and blisters, but it is usually localized to one area of the body and is not typically associated with fever or sore throat.
Conclusion
In answer to the initial question, yes, hand, foot, and mouth disease typically goes away on its own. It is a self-limiting illness that usually resolves within 7 to 10 days. While there is no specific antiviral treatment, managing the symptoms with pain relievers, hydration, and dietary modifications can help to make the affected person more comfortable. Practicing good hygiene habits is crucial to prevent the spread of HFMD. While most cases are mild, it is important to seek medical attention if there are signs of complications or if the symptoms worsen. Understanding the natural course of HFMD, recognizing its symptoms, and implementing appropriate management strategies can help to navigate this common childhood illness with confidence. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
What are the typical symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) typically presents with a fever, reduced appetite, and a general feeling of being unwell. A sore throat is also a common early symptom. After a day or two, painful sores usually develop in the mouth. These sores often start as small red spots that blister and then ulcerate. These can make it difficult to eat or drink.
The characteristic rash of HFMD then appears, usually on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks. This rash is typically not itchy and consists of small, flat, red spots or blisters. While less common, the rash can also appear on the knees, elbows, or genital area. It’s important to note that not everyone with HFMD will develop all these symptoms, and some may only have a mild illness.
How long does Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease usually last?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is generally a self-limiting illness, meaning it resolves on its own without specific medical treatment. The typical duration of HFMD is between seven to ten days. Symptoms, such as fever and sore throat, usually begin to improve within a few days of onset.
The mouth sores usually heal within a week, and the rash typically fades within the same timeframe. Although the disease resolves within this period, it’s crucial to provide supportive care, such as pain relief and hydration, to make the individual more comfortable. While the disease resolves independently, complications, though rare, can occur, so monitoring for any concerning symptoms is still essential.
What can I do to relieve the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease at home?
Managing the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) at home primarily involves providing comfort and ensuring adequate hydration. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate fever and sore throat pain. It’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions on the medication label and avoid giving aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Encourage the individual to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if they are experiencing painful mouth sores that make it difficult to eat or drink. Cold liquids, such as water, milk, or popsicles, can be soothing. Avoid acidic juices like orange juice, as they can irritate the sores. Soft foods, like yogurt or mashed potatoes, are easier to swallow. Good hygiene practices, like frequent handwashing, can help prevent the spread of the disease.
When should I see a doctor for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
While Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) usually resolves on its own, there are instances when seeking medical attention is advisable. If your child has a high fever (over 102°F or 39°C), especially if it doesn’t respond to fever-reducing medication, consult a doctor. Similarly, if the individual appears dehydrated, showing signs such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or sunken eyes, immediate medical evaluation is needed.
If the pain from the mouth sores is severe and prevents the individual from eating or drinking, or if they are experiencing neurological symptoms like headache, stiff neck, or weakness, a doctor should be consulted. Although rare, complications like viral meningitis or encephalitis can occur. Also, if you are unsure about the diagnosis and want to rule out other conditions, seek medical advice. A doctor can provide guidance on managing symptoms and monitoring for potential complications.
How contagious is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is highly contagious, particularly during the first week of illness. The virus spreads through direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva, blister fluid, or stool of an infected person. Coughing, sneezing, and close personal contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils, can facilitate the spread of the virus. It can also spread through touching contaminated surfaces, like toys or doorknobs.
Individuals are most contagious during the first week of their illness. However, the virus can sometimes persist in the stool for several weeks after symptoms have resolved, meaning transmission is still possible even after recovery. This prolonged shedding of the virus makes it difficult to completely prevent the spread of HFMD, but good hygiene practices significantly reduce the risk.
Can adults get Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Yes, adults can get Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), although it is more common in children under the age of five. Adults often have immunity to the viruses that cause HFMD due to previous exposure during childhood. However, they can still contract the disease, especially if they have a weakened immune system or if they are exposed to a new strain of the virus.
Adults who get HFMD may experience symptoms similar to those in children, including fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. However, adults may sometimes have milder symptoms or even be asymptomatic. Even if they don’t show symptoms, they can still transmit the virus to others. Therefore, maintaining good hygiene practices is essential for adults as well.
How can I prevent the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Preventing the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) primarily involves practicing good hygiene. Frequent and thorough handwashing is crucial, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food. Use soap and water and wash for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used when soap and water are not available.
Avoid close contact with individuals who are infected with HFMD, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing eating utensils. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and countertops, using a household disinfectant. If your child is sick, keep them home from school or daycare to prevent further spread. Teaching children about proper hygiene practices is also essential in reducing transmission.