Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease in adults

Adults with hand, foot and mouth disease often present with fever, oral ulcers and rashes on the hands, feet, mouth and other parts of the body. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, so you need to pay attention to your condition and seek medical attention in time for a clear diagnosis and treatment. In particular, persistent high fever, severe pain or neurological symptoms may indicate the possibility of severe infection.

1. Fever and general discomfort

The first symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease usually include fever, mostly between 38℃ and 39℃, accompanied by general discomfort symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches and headaches. These symptoms are similar to those of a cold, but they often worsen after 1-2 days. Fever can be relieved by antipyretics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but they must be used under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, patients should pay attention to hydration, rest and monitoring of body temperature.

2. Oral ulcers and sore throat

Adult patients often have oral or pharyngeal ulcers, with obvious redness and swelling around the ulcers, and obvious throat pain, which often affects their diet. Oral anti-inflammatory sprays, such as compound chlorhexidine gargle, can be used to clean the affected area, and be careful to avoid eating spicy, acidic or overheated foods to reduce irritation. In terms of diet, it is recommended to choose mild liquid foods, such as rice porridge, soups, etc., to help relieve pain and provide adequate nutrition.

3. Rash symptoms

Small blister-like rashes may appear on the hands, feet, mouth, and other parts of the body, and some patients may feel itchy or painful. The rash usually lasts for about a week, but scratching may cause infection or skin damage. To relieve itching, you can use calamine lotion for external use, while keeping the skin dry and clean. If the rash breaks out or becomes infected, you may need to use anti-infective drugs under the guidance of a doctor.

4. Special complications

Some adult patients may suffer from neurological involvement when their condition is serious, such as complications such as meningitis, encephalitis or myocarditis, which manifest as persistent high fever, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, and even confusion. At this time, emergency medical treatment is required for further treatment, which may include antiviral treatment, hormone treatment or supportive treatment.

Although most cases of hand, foot and mouth disease in adults are mild, some cases may develop into severe cases. You should seek medical attention in a timely manner, receive symptomatic treatment, and follow the doctor's advice. Paying attention to hygiene in daily life, washing hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with infected people can effectively reduce the risk of disease transmission. During the recovery period after the disease, you should also pay attention to rest to enhance your body's immunity.