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

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