Hand, foot and mouth disease is usually a mild disease that clears up on its own. Complications are uncommon, but could include the following.
Dehydration
The sores that develop in your throat and mouth may make it difficult for you to drink and swallow. As a result, dehydration can occur. Therefore, if you have the disease, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. If your child is affected, make sure that they drink plenty.
If dehydration becomes severe, you may have to go to hospital so that fluid can be given through a drip in your arm (intravenously).
Infection
Another possible complication of hand, foot and mouth disease is infection of the sores. If the sores are scratched, they may become infected. If this happens, your GP may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Viral meningitis
In rare cases, hand, foot and mouth disease can lead to viral meningitis. Viral meningitis is an infection of the meninges (membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord).
Viral meningitis is less severe than bacterial meningitis and most people will make a full recovery within two weeks. Symptoms include fever, drowsiness, headache, neck stiffness, vomiting and dislike of bright lights. There is no specific treatment.
For more information, see Health A-Z: meningitis.
Encephalitis
In very rare cases, hand, foot and mouth disease can lead to encephalitis. Encephalitis is an infection that causes the brain tissue to swell and become inflamed. It can cause brain damage and is potentially life threatening.
Early signs of encephalitis are flu-like symptoms, which can develop in a few hours or over a few days. Other symptoms include:
- vomiting,
- drowsiness or confusion,
- seizures (fits), and
- dislike of bright lights.
If you develop encephalitis, you will need to be admitted to hospital. Many people make a full recovery.
For more information, see Health A-Z: encephalitis.
