What is hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses and is common in infants and young children and in collective settings such as kindergartens and nurseries. The clinical manifestations of hand, foot and mouth disease are mainly symptoms such as herpes and ulcers on the hands, feet, mouth and other parts, which may be accompanied by fever, cough, diarrhea and other discomforts.
Pictures of early symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease
The initial symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease are mainly manifested in the mouth, hands and feet and other parts of the body. The following symptoms generally begin 3-5 days before the onset of the disease:
1. Oral area: Redness, swelling or spots on the oral mucosa, small herpes on the tongue, sore throat, and oral ulcers. These symptoms may cause loss of appetite, difficulty eating, bad breath, etc.
2. Hands and feet: Red spots and erythema appear on the joints of the hands and feet, on the palms and soles of the feet, and may even develop into blisters. These symptoms may cause pain in the hands and feet, itchy skin and other discomforts.
3. Fever: Hand, foot and mouth disease is often accompanied by fever, usually below 39 degrees.
4. Diarrhea: Some patients will also experience diarrhea symptoms, which are characterized by increased stool frequency and soft, watery or loose stools.
How to prevent hand, foot and mouth disease
1. Good personal hygiene: wash your hands frequently and keep your hands clean and hygienic. Pay attention to cleanliness when using tableware, cups, etc.
2. Strengthen environmental hygiene: keep indoor ventilation clean and ventilate frequently. Pay attention to keeping the indoor humidity appropriate and avoid excessive dryness or humidity indoors.
3. Reasonably arrange children’s activities: avoid children going to group activities. If you must go to parks and other places for activities, try to choose a public place with fewer people and a clean environment, and dress your child in appropriate clothes before going out.
4. Try to avoid contact with patients: To reduce the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease, you should avoid contact with patients and do not use the patients\’ personal belongings, such as towels, wash basins, tableware, etc.
How to treat hand, foot and mouth disease
There is currently no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease, and symptomatic treatment is usually used. Patients can relieve symptoms by resting, eating properly, and staying hydrated. Pay attention to oral hygiene and avoid spicy, sour, and hard foods. If you have a high fever, severe oral ulcers, or worsening diarrhea, you should go to the hospital in time and receive a doctor\’s diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Hand, foot and mouth disease is an infectious disease caused by enterovirus, which mainly manifests in the hands, feet, mouth and other parts of the body. To prevent hand, foot and mouth disease, you can strengthen personal hygiene, environmental sanitation, arrange activities reasonably and avoid contact with patients as much as possible. If early symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease occur, you should seek medical treatment promptly and pay attention to rest, diet and oral hygiene.
