#asktheexpert my son is who is 3 yo is having red bumps on toes & heel area. What should I do now ? I think one is on his tongue also.

Question

Accepted Answer

Red bumps on the toes, heel area, and possibly on the tongue in a 3-year-old could be indicative of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), a common viral infection that affects young children. This condition typically presents with:

Red bumps or blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks.

Sores in the mouth that may appear on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks.

Fever, poor appetite, and irritability.

What to Do:

1. Monitor for Additional Symptoms:

Keep an eye out for fever, mouth sores, or a rash that might spread to other parts of the body.

Ensure the red bumps don’t get infected or become painful.

2. Comfort Measures for HFMD:

Hydration: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, especially if they have mouth sores that make it painful to eat or drink.

Pain Relief: You can give acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen (for children) to relieve fever or pain, but always follow the dosing instructions for your child's age and weight.

Cold Compresses: If the bumps are uncomfortable, cold compresses or ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) may soothe the skin.

Mouth Care: For sores on the tongue or inside the mouth, you can give them cool, soft foods that won’t irritate the sores (like yogurt or mashed potatoes).

3. Prevent Spread:

HFMD is contagious, so try to keep your child away from other children until the blisters scab over and they are feeling better.

Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, cleaning toys, and disinfecting surfaces.

4. When to Seek Medical Help:

If the bumps worsen, spread rapidly, or if your child has difficulty drinking fluids, has high fever, or shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fewer wet diapers), contact your pediatrician.

If there’s swelling or unusual pain at the site of the bumps, or if the tongue sores make it difficult to swallow or breathe, seek medical attention right away.

Other Possible Causes:

Allergic Reactions: If your child recently came into contact with new soaps, lotions, foods, or insect bites, red bumps could be a result of an allergic reaction.

Infections: Other skin conditions like impetigo or chickenpox could cause similar symptoms. These need to be diagnosed by a healthcare provider.

Since the presence of bumps on the tongue can sometimes be part of HFMD or another condition, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.