Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) typically begins with a fever and general feeling of being unwell, followed by the appearance of a rash and mouth sores within a few days
What HFMD looks like:
- Mouth sores: Painful red spots that blister and become ulcers, usually on the tongue, gums, inside cheeks, and back of the throat. These sores can make swallowing painful, leading to drooling, refusal to eat or drink, and preference for cold fluids
- Skin rash: Small red spots or flat, slightly raised red bumps appear on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, fingers, toes, and sometimes on the buttocks, thighs, arms, and groin. These spots often turn into tiny fluid-filled blisters with a red base. The rash is usually not itchy but can be uncomfortable
- Additional symptoms: Fever, sore throat, irritability, muscle aches, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes a mild cough or abdominal pain
- Appearance of rash: The rash can vary in color depending on skin tone, appearing red, pink, gray, or as tiny bumps. Blisters may be grey or lighter than surrounding skin and sometimes peel, leaving ulcers
Duration and course:
- Symptoms usually last about 7 to 10 days, with most children recovering fully without complications
Summary:
HFMD looks like a combination of fever, painful mouth ulcers, and a rash of red spots and blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes other parts of the body. The mouth sores are often the most painful aspect, making eating and drinking difficult for children
