What to Expect with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection in children, particularly those under the age of five. While it can sound alarming, HFMD is typically mild and resolves on its own within a week or so. The disease is caused by viruses from the enterovirus family, most commonly the coxsackievirus, and is known for causing sores in the mouth and rashes on the hands and feet. Understanding the timeline of symptoms and what to expect can help parents manage their child’s care effectively and ensure a smooth recovery.

At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment for children with HFMD, helping families across Atlanta, including Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur. Here’s what you need to know about the timeline of HFMD, what to expect, and how to care for your child during the illness.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Timeline

The symptoms of HFMD typically develop within 3 to 6 days after exposure to the virus, known as the incubation period. The timeline of HFMD follows a predictable pattern of symptoms:

Day 1-2: Early Symptoms
The first signs of HFMD are often mild and may resemble a common cold or flu. These early symptoms can include:

• Fever A low-grade fever is often the first sign of HFMD, typically around 101°F to 103°F.
• Sore throat Your child may complain of a sore throat or have difficulty swallowing.
• Reduced appetite Due to the sore throat, your child may not feel like eating.

Day 2-3: Mouth Sores and Rash Development
After the initial fever, more specific symptoms of HFMD begin to appear:

• Painful sores in the mouth Small, red spots develop on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks. These spots can turn into painful ulcers, making it difficult for your child to eat or drink.
• Skin rash A red, non-itchy rash begins to appear on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks or legs. The rash may develop into blisters but is generally not painful.

Day 4-7: Peak Symptoms and Recovery
The symptoms of HFMD usually peak by days 4 to 7:

• Discomfort from mouth sores can make eating and drinking challenging for your child. It’s important to keep them hydrated with cool fluids and soft foods.
• Rash and blisters may continue to spread but should start to resolve by the end of the week. The blisters will typically dry up without causing scars.
• Fever subsides The fever usually disappears by day 3 or 4, but your child may still feel fatigued or irritable during recovery.

Most children recover from HFMD within 7 to 10 days without complications. While the disease is mild, it can be uncomfortable, and proper care can help ease your child’s symptoms.

Important Facts About Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Contagion and Transmission
HFMD is highly contagious and spreads easily in environments such as daycares, schools, and playgrounds. The virus is transmitted through:

• Direct contact with respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
• Touching contaminated surfaces like toys, doorknobs, or countertops.
• Contact with feces from an infected person, often through diaper changes.

Children with HFMD are most contagious during the first week of illness, particularly when they have a fever. However, the virus can still be present in saliva and stool for several weeks after symptoms have resolved, which is why hygiene and proper handwashing are crucial for preventing the spread of HFMD.

Statistics on HFMD

• Age group most affected HFMD primarily affects children under 5 years old, although it can occasionally occur in older children and adults.
• Seasonality The disease is most common in the summer and fall, particularly in daycare settings where children are in close contact with one another.
• Duration of illness Most cases of HFMD last 7 to 10 days, and the majority of children recover without complications.
• Complications Severe complications, such as viral meningitis, are rare but can occur, particularly in children with weakened immune systems.

How to Care for Your Child with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

While there is no specific treatment for HFMD, there are several steps you can take to help relieve your child’s discomfort and speed up recovery:

Keep Your Child Hydrated
Mouth sores can make drinking painful, increasing the risk of dehydration. Offer your child cool fluids, such as water, milk, or oral rehydration solutions. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may irritate the sores. If your child is not eating solid foods, try offering popsicles or cold smoothies to soothe their throat.

Relieve Pain and Fever
Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce fever and relieve the pain from mouth sores and rash. Be sure to follow your pediatrician’s recommendations on dosing.

Maintain Good Hygiene
Since HFMD is highly contagious, it’s essential to practice good hygiene to prevent the virus from spreading. Wash your hands frequently, especially after changing diapers, and disinfect surfaces and toys that may have been contaminated.

Encourage Rest
HFMD can leave children feeling fatigued, so encourage plenty of rest during recovery. Keep your child home from daycare or school until the fever has resolved and the blisters have dried up.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While HFMD is usually mild, you should seek medical attention if your child:

• Shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, infrequent urination, or lack of tears when crying.
• Has a high fever that lasts more than 3 days.
• Appears unusually irritable or lethargic.
• Develops symptoms of severe complications such as a stiff neck, headache, or difficulty breathing.

At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we are here to provide expert care if your child develops HFMD or if you have concerns about their symptoms. We offer supportive care and guidance to help your child recover quickly and comfortably.

Schedule an Appointment for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Care in Atlanta

If your child is showing signs of HFMD or if you’re concerned about their symptoms, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine to schedule an appointment. Our team of experienced pediatricians provides expert diagnosis and care at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families throughout Atlanta.