Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Supportive care measures for a child with hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) experiencing oral pain and difficulty eating include:
- Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, as young children are particularly prone to this complication.
- Advise a soft diet to reduce oral discomfort, avoiding foods that are hot, spicy, salty, or acidic as these may exacerbate oral pain.
- Consider the use of paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve pain, following appropriate dosing guidelines for children.
- Encourage good hygiene practices to reduce transmission risk, such as thorough handwashing and avoiding sharing utensils.
- Monitor for signs of dehydration or worsening symptoms, and seek medical advice if oral ulcers persist beyond 3 weeks or if the child becomes more unwell.
Antibiotics and antiviral medications are not recommended unless there is suspicion of secondary infection.
Key References
- CKS - Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- CKS - Herpes simplex - oral
- CG84 - Diarrhoea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis in under 5s: diagnosis and management
- NG206 - Myalgic encephalomyelitis (or encephalopathy)/chronic fatigue syndrome: diagnosis and management
- NG143 - Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management
- NG61 - End of life care for infants, children and young people with life-limiting conditions: planning and management