Homeopathic treatment for Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Definition

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral infection commonly seen in infants and young children, but older children and adults can also be affected. It spreads rapidly in schools, daycares and families. Although the rashes and mouth ulcers look severe, HFMD is usually mild and resolves within a week.

With 24+ years of experience at Health Global Homoeopathy Clinic, I have treated many HFMD cases with faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved immunity.

Aetiology

HFMD is caused by enteroviruses, mainly:

  • Coxsackievirus A16

  • Enterovirus 71 (EV71)

  • Coxsackievirus A6

These viruses target the mucous membranes, skin and immune system, leading to fever, mouth ulcers and rashes.

Pathophysiology of HFMD

Understanding the pathophysiology helps explain why symptoms appear the way they do.

1. Entry into the Body

The virus enters through:

  • Nose

  • Throat

  • Mouth

  • Digestive tract

It attaches to epithelial cells and begins multiplying.

2. Viral Replication in the Throat & Intestines

Once inside, the virus replicates in:

  • Oropharynx

  • Lymph nodes

  • Small intestine (Peyer’s patches)

This triggers early symptoms like fever and sore throat.

3. Viremia (Virus Entering the Bloodstream)

Around 48–72 hours after infection:

  • The virus enters the bloodstream

  • Spreads to distant tissues such as skin and oral mucosa

This stage causes:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced appetite

4. Attack on Skin & Mucous Membranes

The virus specifically targets:

  • Skin of palms and soles

  • Oral mucosa

  • Buttocks and elbows

The immune response in these areas causes:

  • Red spots

  • Ulcers

  • Vesicles (fluid-filled blisters)

Oral ulcers are painful because:

  • The virus destroys epithelial cells

  • Immune cells release inflammatory chemicals

  • Nerve endings become exposed

5. Immune System Response

The body begins producing antibodies to fight the virus.
This leads to gradual healing over 7–10 days.

6. Why Skin Peels After Recovery

After the rash heals, the dead skin layers shed naturally.
This is not dangerous and resolves on its own in 1–3 weeks.

7. Reason for Recurrence

HFMD can occur again because:

  • Different strains cause infection

  • Immunity is strain-specific

  • Not all enteroviruses are covered after one infection

How HFMD Spreads

The virus spreads through:

  • Saliva, mucus, sputum

  • Fluid from blisters

  • Contaminated surfaces

  • Stool of infected children

  • Close contact (hugging, playing, sharing toys)

HFMD is most contagious during the first week.

Symptoms of HFMD

Early Symptoms

  • Fever

  • Sore throat

  • Irritability

  • Tiredness

  • Loss of appetite

Specific Symptoms

Painful mouth ulcers

Rash on hands, feet, buttocks and legs

Blisters that may burst

Skin peeling after recovery

Diagnosis

Usually based on:

  • Visual examination

  • Symptom pattern

  • Exposure history

Blood tests are rarely needed.

Conventional Treatment

Since HFMD is viral, there is no specific antiviral.
Treatment focuses on:

  • Hydration

  • Fever control

  • Pain relief

  • Mouth ulcer care

Homeopathic Treatment for HFMD

Homeopathy helps reduce:

  • Fever

  • Oral ulcer pain

  • Rash inflammation

  • Irritability

  • Loss of appetite

  • Recovery time

Commonly used remedies (selected based on symptoms):

  • Merc Sol

  • Borax

  • Rhus Tox

  • Belladonna

  • Arsenicum Album

  • Antimonium Crudum

Homeopathic treatment also strengthens immunity, reducing recurrence.

Home Care Tips

  • Keep the child hydrated

  • Give soft, cold foods

  • Avoid spicy or acidic foods

  • Maintain hygiene

  • Do not scratch rashes

  • Keep nails short

  • Allow rest

Prevention

  • Frequent handwashing

  • Sanitising toys and surfaces

  • Avoiding sharing utensils and bottles

  • Keeping sick children at home

  • Teaching hygiene habits

When to Seek Urgent Care

  • High fever for more than 3 days

  • Dehydration

  • Child not eating or drinking

  • Drowsiness

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Worsening rash

Conclusion

HFMD is a common childhood viral infection that recovers naturally but causes significant discomfort. Homeopathy greatly helps by reducing pain, speeding healing and boosting immunity.

Call-To-Action

If your child is showing symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease or if you need personalised guidance, book an appointment with Dr. Jyoti Kadkol (24 years of experience) at Health Global Homoeopathy Clinic, Vijayanagar, Bangalore.
Call 9035971275

Tags: No tags

6 Responses

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *