Hand, foot, and mouth

Happy first day of the "-ber" months to all those who celebrate! Bluffton's viruses did not get the memo, because this summer bug is currently wreaking havoc on local daycares. If you have a few kids, you likely are already very familiar with this bug, but for first-time parents it can be quite alarming the first time you see hand, foot and mouth.

What is it?

Cocksackie virus! A viral infection that often starts with a fever and leads to a blistering rash to the back of the throat, the palms, bottom of the feet, and sometimes the buttocks. The presentation is variable. Sometimes children just get the rash on their hands, other times just the back of their throat.

How did they get it?

From someone else with the illness, or who had the illness recently. The virus can stay alive on surfaces (hello daycare toys and shopping carts), and then easily get in when your child touches their mouth and face.

How do we treat it?

Since it is viral, the biggest thing is supportive care at home. The goal is keeping your child hydrated! The sore throat can greatly decrease how much a child is eating and drinking which can land them in the ER with dehydration. Cold fluids (icing their beverages) as well as popsicles and ice cream can help soothe the back of their throat, and keep them peeing like usual. You want to avoid any spicy or acidic foods (avoid lemonade, orange juice, or even spaghetti sauce can irritate those ulcers at the back of their throat. You also want to avoid crunchy foods (chips, puffs, etc) as this can scrape those ulcers and cause pain. Timing tylenol or motrin roughly 30 minutes before a meal can be helpful to increase oral intake if necessary.

What to expect?

Generally, the rash lasts about a week. It can sometimes start with a good high fever for a few days. It is not uncommon to have peeling of the fingernails and skin of fingers a few weeks after the initial rash. You should call your pediatrician if your child has decreased urine output, or if their fever is lasting 5 days or more.

Follow this link to schedule a meet & greet with Dr. Janke to see if Free Range Pediatrics is a good fit for your family!

This article is for educational purposes only and should not be regarded as medical advice or replace the advice of your physician.