Hand-Foot-Mouth Pediatric Care Plan

By K Health
Medically reviewed checkmarkMedically reviewed
December 30, 2020

What is Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease?

Hand-foot-mouth disease (HFM) is caused by the coxsackie virus. As per its name, it causes a characteristic bumpy rash in the mouth and on the hands and feet. These bumps can be painful and make it difficult for your child to eat and drink.

HFM most commonly occurs in children less than 7 years old. Less common symptoms of the disease include:

  • fever
  • fussiness
  • stomach ache
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea

Complications of HFM are extremely rare, but when they occur they tend to affect the heart and the brain.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

HFM is diagnosed based on history and physical exam. No blood work is required. 

There is no specific treatment for HFM. Management is supportive and includes: 

  • Encourage hydration, 
  • Pain control with tylenol and ibuprofen 
  • Magic mouthwash (maalox, benadryl, viscous lidocaine) is not routinely recommended because it has not been proven to be effective and ingestion of lidocaine can be toxic. Ask your provider if this is appropriate to try this in your child.

See a Doctor in Person If…

  • Your child has a fever for greater than 7 days
  • Your child cannot drink because of mouth pain
  • Your child seems lethargic or unusually tired
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

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