Early symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease in infants

The initial symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease in infants usually include fever, oral ulcers, and rashes on the hands, feet, and buttocks. These symptoms may worry parents, but understanding its early manifestations and care methods can help them cope better.

1. Fever: In the early stages of hand, foot and mouth disease, babies usually have a fever. The temperature may be between 38-39 degrees Celsius, sometimes even higher. The fever usually lasts for 2 to 3 days. Parents can help babies relieve discomfort by wiping with warm water and taking appropriate antipyretic drugs, but they need to be careful to avoid excessive cooling to avoid causing chills.

2. Oral ulcers: Small blisters will appear in the baby's mouth. These blisters will rupture and form ulcers, which will make it difficult for the baby to eat and increase drooling. To relieve the pain, you can provide the baby with warm and cool food and drinks, and avoid sour and spicy foods. Using some oral care products specifically for children can also help relieve the discomfort of ulcers.

3. Rash: The name of hand, foot and mouth disease comes from its typical rash, which is red spots or blisters on the palms, soles, buttocks and around the mouth of infants. These rashes are usually not itchy, but may cause discomfort to infants. Keeping the skin clean and dry and avoiding scratching can reduce the risk of infection.

4. Emotional changes: Babies may become irritable and cry due to physical discomfort. Parents need to comfort them and remain patient. You can comfort babies by gently touching or rocking them to reduce their anxiety.

5. Diet adjustment: During the period of hand, foot and mouth disease, the baby's appetite may decrease. Providing easily digestible and nutritious food, such as rice cereal, vegetable soup, etc., can help the baby replenish the nutrients needed by the body. Avoid hard food to avoid irritating oral ulcers.

6. Maintain hygiene: Hand, foot and mouth disease is contagious. Parents need to pay attention to the baby's personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, and avoid close contact with other children. Using disinfectants to clean toys, tableware and other items can also effectively prevent the spread of the disease.

7. Observe the condition: In the early stages of hand, foot and mouth disease, parents need to closely observe the changes in the baby's condition. If the fever persists, the rash becomes purulent, or the baby shows serious symptoms such as lethargy and shortness of breath, seek medical attention in time.

8. Replenish water: Fever and oral ulcers can cause babies to lose a lot of water, so parents need to pay attention to replenishing enough water for their babies. You can help babies maintain water balance by feeding them warm water, diluted juice, etc.

9. Avoid excessive activity: During the illness, the baby's body is relatively weak. Parents should avoid letting the baby engage in excessive activity and maintain proper rest to help the body recover.

By understanding and mastering these early symptoms and care methods, parents can better deal with infant hand, foot and mouth disease and reduce unnecessary worries. Staying calm and providing scientific care are the keys to helping infants recover quickly.