You cannot copy content of this website, your IP is being recorded
When to Seek Medical Care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

When to Seek Medical Care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a common viral illness that can cause discomfort in children. Knowing when to seek medical care is crucial to ensure your child receives the proper attention and support. If your child experiences severe symptoms such as a high fever, dehydration, difficulty swallowing, or a rash that worsens, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. At Evergreen Pediatrics, our board-certified pediatrician, Basma Raees, MD, provides expert care for children with viral illnesses. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 12911 120th Ave NE Suite B10, Kirkland, WA 98034.

When to Seek Medical Care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease | Kirkland, WA
When to Seek Medical Care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease | Kirkland, WA

Table of Contents:

What symptoms indicate a need for medical care with HFMD?
When should I worry about dehydration in a child with HFMD?
Can a high fever with HFMD require medical attention?
Are severe mouth sores a reason to see a doctor?

What symptoms indicate a need for medical care with HFMD?


Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is usually a mild, self-limiting viral illness, but some symptoms may warrant medical attention to ensure your child’s well-being. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent complications and promote faster recovery.

Key Symptoms to Watch For:

● Persistent Fever: A fever over 101°F (38.3°C) lasting more than 24 hours or not responding to medication may indicate a more severe infection.
● Severe Rash or Blisters: If the rash spreads, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection, seek medical evaluation.
● Mouth Sores and Dehydration: Difficulty eating or drinking due to mouth sores can lead to dehydration. Look for signs such as reduced urination, dry mouth, or lethargy.
● Headache and Neck Stiffness: Severe headache, neck stiffness, or irritability may signal complications like viral meningitis.
● Serious Symptoms: Rare signs like chest pain, breathing difficulties, seizures, or confusion require immediate medical care as they could indicate serious complications.

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly to ensure appropriate care and management.

When should I worry about dehydration in a child with HFMD?


Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common and typically mild viral illness in children. However, dehydration can become a concern, especially if mouth sores make it difficult for your child to eat or drink. Recognizing the early signs of dehydration is crucial to prevent complications and ensure your child’s recovery.

Signs of Dehydration to Watch For:

● Refusal or inability to drink fluids for several hours.
● Fewer wet diapers or infrequent, dark-colored urine.
● Dry mouth, lips, or cracked skin.
● Sunken eyes or hollow-looking cheeks.
● Lethargy, unusual irritability, or excessive sleepiness.
● Rapid breathing or heart rate.
● Cool, pale, or clammy skin.

If you notice these signs, encourage your child to drink small, frequent sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, or continue breastfeeding for infants. If they refuse fluids, vomit, or symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly. Severe dehydration may require professional care, including intravenous fluid replacement, to restore hydration and support recovery.

Can a high fever with HFMD require medical attention?


At Evergreen Pediatrics, we understand the concern that comes with your child experiencing a high fever and symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). This common viral illness primarily affects children and is characterized by fever, sore throat, and a distinctive rash with blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks. A fever often precedes the rash, marking the onset of HFMD.

Typically, HFMD is mild and self-limiting, with symptoms resolving within a week to ten days. However, we emphasize that a high fever can be a signal for closer monitoring and potentially, medical attention. While fever is a natural response to infection, it becomes concerning if it is excessively high or persistent. In most HFMD cases, fever subsides within a few days.

If your child’s fever exceeds 101°F (38.3°C) and persists for more than 24 hours, it might indicate a more serious infection or complication. We encourage parents and caregivers to monitor the fever closely. Seek medical evaluation if the fever exceeds 102°F (38.9°C), lasts more than three days, or is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

● Fever that does not respond to over-the-counter fever reducers
● Drowsiness, confusion, or seizures
● Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
● Severe pain in the mouth or throat
● Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, and lethargy

Are severe mouth sores a reason to see a doctor?


Mouth sores, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, commonly occur in children and are usually harmless. However, certain characteristics of these sores may warrant a visit to Evergreen Pediatrics:

● Large or Persistent Sores: If your child has mouth sores that are unusually large or last longer than two to three weeks, it may suggest an underlying medical condition that needs evaluation.
● Painful or Debilitating Sores: Severe pain from mouth sores can affect your child’s ability to eat, drink, or speak comfortably. Our pediatric specialists can help manage this discomfort.
● Sores Accompanied by Fever or Other Symptoms: Mouth sores that come with fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes may indicate a more serious infection or immune issue, which we can address promptly.
● Frequent or Recurring Sores: Repeated outbreaks of mouth sores in your child can be a sign of conditions like celiac disease or a vitamin deficiency. Our team can evaluate and guide you on the appropriate steps.
● Sores That Affect Eating or Drinking: If mouth sores are impacting your child’s nutrition or hydration, we can provide solutions to ensure they maintain a healthy intake of food and fluids.
● Sores That Change in Appearance: If the sores change in appearance or spread, it is important to have them checked to rule out other conditions.
● Sores in Immunocompromised Children: Children with weakened immune systems may experience more severe mouth sores. We offer specialized care for these cases to ensure your child’s health is protected.

Our experienced pediatricians are equipped to conduct thorough examinations and, if necessary, perform tests to diagnose the cause of your child’s mouth sores. We offer a range of treatment options, from topical medications to lifestyle and dietary advice, to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

By consulting with our healthcare professionals at Evergreen Pediatrics, you can ensure your child receives proper diagnosis and treatment, providing relief and peace of mind for you and your family. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 12911 120th Ave NE Suite B10, Kirkland, WA 98034. We serve patients from Seattle WA, Shoreline WA, Lake Forest Park WA, Kenmore WA, Woodinville WA, Mountlake Terrace WA, Woodway WA, Edmonds WA, Lynnwood WA, Bothell WA and Lake Washington WA.