Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that typically affects infants and children under five years old, but can also occur in older children and adults. While generally mild, the symptoms can be uncomfortable and cause concern for parents. At NovaHealth Urgent Care, we understand these worries and are equipped to provide comprehensive care for those affected by hand foot and mouth disease.
HFMD is caused by the coxsackievirus, and its characteristic symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and a distinctive rash on the hands and feet, and sometimes on the buttocks. These mouth sores can make eating and drinking difficult, leading to dehydration in some cases. The rash often appears as red spots, sometimes with blisters, and can be itchy or uncomfortable.
When you visit NovaHealth Urgent Care with concerns about hand foot and mouth disease, our experienced medical team will conduct a thorough examination. This typically involves assessing the patient’s symptoms, looking for the characteristic rash and mouth sores, and evaluating for signs of dehydration. In most cases, a diagnosis of HFMD can be made based on clinical symptoms alone, without the need for extensive testing.
Treatment for hand foot and mouth disease is primarily supportive, as there is no specific antiviral medication for the virus itself. Our focus at NovaHealth Urgent Care is on managing symptoms and ensuring the patient’s comfort. This often includes recommendations for over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help alleviate discomfort from mouth sores and fever. We also emphasize the importance of hydration. We will advise on encouraging fluid intake, offering soft, bland foods that are easier to swallow, and avoiding acidic or spicy foods that can irritate mouth sores.
For particularly painful mouth sores, we may suggest oral numbing gels or rinses to provide temporary relief, especially before meals. Parents will also receive guidance on how to prevent the spread of HFMD, as it is highly contagious. This includes frequent handwashing, especially after changing diapers or using the restroom, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces.
While HFMD is usually self-limiting and resolves within 7 to 10 days, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. If your child is experiencing a high fever, signs of dehydration (like decreased urination, dry mouth, or lethargy), severe mouth pain preventing them from drinking, or if their symptoms worsen or don’t improve, NovaHealth Urgent Care is here to help. We provide timely assessments and personalized care to ensure a smooth recovery from hand foot, and mouth disease. Our goal is to offer peace of mind and effective symptom management so you and your family can get back to feeling your best.
This post was written by a professional at NovaHealth Urgent Care of Southfield. At NovaHealth Urgent Care of Southfield, our mission is to make patients feel valued and well cared for. We provide convenient, quality, and care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Our certified providers offer best-in-class 24 hour urgent care southfield mi in clean, modern facilities. Located at W 10 Mile Rd. & Beech Rd., we are open 365 days a year: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 12:00 am, and weekends, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm. NovaHealth proudly serves Southfield City, Southfield, Farmington Hills, Franklin, Beverly Hills, Farmington, Detroit, and more. Whether you need treatment for a minor injury, illness, or routine health service, we are here to help. Connect with us today!
