Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease in Children: Effective Treatment Methods
Introduction
Hand-foot-mouth disease is a common viral infection that predominantly affects young children, but can also occur in adults. It is a condition that causes painful rashes on the mouth, hands and feet, as well as fever and general discomfort. Although it can be an unpleasant experience for your child, it is important to know that there are effective treatment methods that can ease their symptoms and help them recover faster.
What Is Hand-Foot Disease?
This disease is caused by several types of viruses, the most common being coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71. Transmission is through direct contact with body fluids or by touching contaminated surfaces. The disease is contagious and spreads quickly in communities, which is why it is very common in nurseries or kindergartens.
Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, sore throat and sores. Eruptions on the hands and feet hide behind real discomforts and can even appear on the buttocks. In rarer cases, complications such as dehydration or viral meningitis can also occur.
Motor Development
In the case of Hand-Foot-Mouth disease, children's motor development can be temporarily affected. Pain from injuries can cause children to be less active, avoid eating or walking. Children may also have difficulty putting on shoes or using their hands to play.
To help them maintain their mobility and comfort, it is recommended to use soothing creams or lotions directly on the affected areas. It is also important to maintain strict hygiene to prevent superinfection of the lesions.
Language development
Hand-Foot-Mouth disease, through the lesions it causes in the mouth, can also influence language development in children. Pain while talking or eating can lead to refusal of food or limitation of communication. It is crucial to provide emotional support to the child and to encourage continued communication through other methods such as sign language or gestures when speaking is difficult.
An alternative for feeding is the use of liquid or creamy foods, which do not irritate and stress the oral mucosa as much. In more severe cases, consult your doctor to discuss the possibility of using specific pain relievers.
Effective treatments
Although there is no specific treatment to eliminate the virus, several methods are available to relieve symptoms and speed up the healing process.
Natural remedies
Many natural remedies have been known for their soothing and healing effects. Oatmeal baths can soothe irritated skin, and manuka honey can help heal mouth sores. However, the use of natural remedies should always be discussed with a pediatrician first.
The medication
Drug treatments may include pain relievers to reduce pain or fever, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. The use of antivirals in severe cases can be considered, but this depends on the doctor's recommendation.
Hydration and Correct Nutrition
It is essential to ensure adequate hydration to prevent dehydration, especially if the child has a fever or refuses solid foods. Chicken soup, natural juices and water should be encouraged. In terms of nutrition, soft and easy-to-swallow foods are best during this period.
Prevention of Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease
The best way to fight the disease is prevention. Frequent hand washing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected people and regular cleaning of toys and surfaces that the child comes into contact with are essential measures.
Vaccination, while not available against all strains of the virus that causes the disease, can protect against more severe forms, especially in regions where these vaccines are available.
Conclusion
Hand-foot-mouth disease is an infection that can be difficult for both children and parents. However, with the help of effective treatment methods and careful care, most children recover completely and quickly. It is important to maintain open communication with the pediatrician and monitor the evolution of the child's symptoms. After symptoms improve, the child will be able to return to normal activities, enjoying childhood again.
For more information and advice on how to manage these moments, we recommend you continue to explore our sections on children's health or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and resources.
