There is no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease. The condition usually clears up by itself after 7 to 10 days. As it is caused by a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics.
You can ease the symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease by:
- resting,
- drinking plenty of fluids (water or weak squash are ideal), and
- taking medication to relieve symptoms.
Medication
Fever
If you or your child has a fever or sore throat, paracetamol should relieve pain and bring down a temperature. Children's paracetamol can be used to treat your child. Aspirin must not be given to children under 16 years of age.
Mouth sores
The pain of mouth ulcers can be numbed with anaesthetic mouthwashes or sprays, such as benzydamine hydrochloride (Difflam). Choline salicylate gel can be used in adults and children aged 16 and over.
