HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE

  1. Antacid for Mouth Pain:  Use a liquid antacid 4 times per day.
    • For younger children, put ½ teaspoon in the front of the mouth 4 times per day after meals.
    • Children over age 4 can use 1 teaspoon as a mouthwash after meals.
  2. Soft Diet:
    • Encourage favorite fluids to prevent dehydration
    • Cold drinks, milkshakes, Popsicles, slushes, and sherbet are good choices.
    • Avoid citrus, salty, or spicy foods.
    • For infants, give fluids by cup, spoon or syringe rather than a bottle. (Reason: The nipple can cause pain.)
    • Solid food intake is not important
    Fever Medicine:  Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen for fever above 102°F (39°C) or severe mouth pain.
  3. Contagiousness:  Quite contagious but a mild and harmless disease. Incubation period is 3-6 days.  Can return to daycare or school after the fever is gone (usually 1 to 3 days).
  4. Expected Course:  The fever lasts 2 or 3 days.  The mouth ulcers resolve by 7 days.  The rash on the hands and feet lasts 10 days.
  5. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Signs of dehydration develop.
    • Fever lasts for more than 3 days.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2004

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