my 6 month old boy baby have hand, food, mouth disease how long it will last. when it will be cured

Question

Accepted Answer

hand and foot and mouth disease is a self limiting viral infection.
commonly seen is viral red eruptions on the skin mainly on the joints of the body and on the bums and around the mouth and there are ulcers in the oral cavity.
only symptoms treatment is given for fever as well as for pain and itching and oral ulcers and the disease usually resolves maximum by 1 to 1 and half weeks.
meet your doctor for more information regarding this disease.
the child should stay away from other children for at least one week because it is a contagious disease.
x
calamine lotion is applied on the skin eruption
zytee / dologel on the ulcer before food intake
anti histamine for skin itching
paracetamol for fever and pain
give mild cold liquid diet when ulcers are more

Accepted Answer

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral infection commonly seen in infants and young children. It typically resolves on its own within a week to ten days. Here are some key points about the duration and management of HFMD:

### Duration of HFMD:

1. **Course of Illness:** HFMD usually begins with a fever, sore throat, and a general feeling of being unwell. This is followed by the development of small, painful sores or blisters in the mouth, on the palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.

2. **Duration:** The acute phase of HFMD typically lasts about 3 to 7 days, during which the fever and symptoms are most intense.

3. **Recovery:** Most children start feeling better within a week, and the sores in the mouth start to heal. Complete recovery, including the disappearance of skin lesions, may take up to 10 days.

### Home Care and Management:

- **Fever Management:** Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve pain. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your pediatrician.

- **Fluid Intake:** Encourage your baby to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Offer cool fluids such as water, breast milk, formula, or electrolyte solutions.

- **Soft Foods:** Offer soft, easy-to-eat foods that are not spicy or acidic to soothe the throat and mouth. Avoid foods that may irritate the sores.

- **Comfort Measures:** Use gentle mouth rinses with water or saline to help alleviate mouth pain. Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol.

- **Isolation:** Keep your baby at home and away from daycare or school until their fever has resolved and they are feeling better. HFMD is contagious, so practicing good hygiene (handwashing, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing) is important to prevent spreading the virus to others.

### When to Seek Medical Attention:

- **Difficulty Drinking:** If your baby is refusing to drink or showing signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry mouth, crying without tears).
  
- **High Fever:** Fever persisting for more than a few days despite medication.

- **Severe Symptoms:** If your baby develops difficulty breathing, becomes very lethargic, or has seizures.

- **Worsening Condition:** If symptoms worsen or if you have any concerns about your baby's health.

Always consult your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns about your baby's condition or if symptoms are severe or prolonged. They can provide personalized guidance based on your baby's health and specific situation.