INFORMATION ON HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Poliomyelitis is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus. The virus enters the body through the mouth and multiplies in the intestine. It may proceed to the blood stream and into the central nervous system causing muscle weakness and often paralysis. Polio is a communicable disease which is categorized as a disease of civilization. Polio spreads through human-to-human contact, usually entering the body through the mouth due to fecally contaminated water or food.SYNONYMS OF HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Synonyms and related keywords:1. Enterovirus infection.
2. Myocarditis.
3. Pneumonia.
4. Meningoencephalitis.
5. Erythematous macule.
6. Erythematous maculopapular eruptions.
CAUSES OF HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Hand-foot-mouth disease is usually caused by a virus called coxsackievirus A16. A variety of other viruses in the Enterovirus family can also cause hand-foot-mouth disease. The actual incidence is unknown, but hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a relatively common infection. This is characterized by painful ulcers in the mouth and throat, but does not show a rash on the hands, feet or buttocks. The most important risk factor is age. The infection affects young children, but can be seen in adolescents and occasionally adults. The outbreaks occur most often in the summer and fall.SYMPTOMS OF HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Symptoms of Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease are:1. Fever.
2. Sore throat.
3. Ulcers in the throat mouth and tongue.
4. Headache.
5. A rash with vesicles on hands, feet, and diaper area.
6. Loss of appetite.
DIAGNOSIS OF HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Diagnosis is usually made based on the typical symptoms. A history of recent illness and a physical examination, demonstrating the characteristic vesicles on the hands and feet, are usually sufficient to diagnose the disease.TREATMENT OF HAND-FOOT-MOUTH DISEASE
Treatment with antibiotics is not effective, and is not indicated. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be used to treat fever. Aspirin should not be used in viral illnesses in children under age 12 years. Salt water mouth rinses may be soothing if the child is able to rinse without swallowing.Treatment may include:
Increased fluid intake to prevent dehydration - provide cool, iced fluids in small amounts frequently.
Acetaminophen for any fever.
Proper hand washing is essential in helping to prevent the disease from being spread to other children.
