Navigating the waters of parenthood can be challenging – especially with your first child. As your baby grows, so does his or her immune system. One of the ways your child’s natural immunity gets stronger is through encounters with disease. One of the peskier diseases primarily comes when your child starts attending a daycare or preschool, and it can be a real doozy.
Fortunately, hand, foot, and mouth disease (often called HFMD) is generally not very serious and will resolve on its own. Most pediatricians will recommend ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with fevers and pain, but there are a host of natural remedies that can make this childhood disease easier to manage.
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral illness primarily affecting young children, although adults can contract it as well. This disease is generally caused by coxsackievirus A16 and entersovirus 71, both members of the Enterovirus family. Symptoms typically include fever, sore throat, and malaise, followed by the appearance of painful sores in the mouth and rashes on the hands and feet. While HFMD is generally considered a mild illness, it can be uncomfortable and lead to complications in certain cases.
Who Does It Generally Impact and What Are the Risks?
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease primarily impacts children under the age of 5 but can also affect older children and adults. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own without treatment within 7 to 10 days. However, in some rare cases, HFMD can lead to more severe symptoms or complications, such as dehydration, viral meningitis, or encephalitis.
The conventional approach to treating HFMD often includes antipyretics like acetaminophen to manage fever, but there are also various natural alternatives that can be both safe and effective.
Spotting the Signs
The incubation period for hand, foot and mouth disease is typically between three and six days, and people are generally asymptomatic during this time. The first signs after exposure to the virus include general malaise, reduced appetite, sore throat and a slight fever. A couple of days after that, the painful sores start to develop, often first appearing in the mouth.
Next, small red spots appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and the spread of the rash may end there. Or, the rash may spread to the buttocks, elbows, knees and even genitals. Then, as the red spots morph into blisters, they will start to break open and crust over. The fluid inside contains the virus. So, it is imperative to wash hands and any household items that may have come into contact with the fluid.
15 Natural Remedies for HFMD
1 | Hydration
Keeping well-hydrated is crucial when fighting any viral infection, including HFMD. Water helps to flush out toxins from the body and supports overall well-being. Coconut water is also an excellent hydrating fluid rich in electrolytes.
2 | Herbal Teas
Herbal teas like chamomile and peppermint can help soothe a sore throat and provide relief from pain. These teas also have antiviral properties that can assist in the body’s fight against the HFMD virus.
3 | Probiotics
A balanced gut flora is essential for overall health. Consuming natural probiotics like yogurt or kefir can help in maintaining a healthy gut, which in turn may help your body fight off viral infections more efficiently.
4 | Aloe Vera Gel
Applying aloe vera gel on the rash can provide relief from itching and help in healing the skin. Aloe vera has natural antiviral and antibacterial properties that can aid in treatment.
5 | Epsom Salt Baths
A warm bath with Epsom salt can help in relieving skin discomfort. Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which helps in reducing inflammation and can assist in healing.
6 | Apple Cider Vinegar
Some believe that diluting apple cider vinegar with water and applying it to affected areas may help balance the skin’s pH levels and aid in healing.
7 | Essential Oils
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus have antiviral and antibacterial properties. However, they should be used cautiously and always diluted, especially when applying them on children.
8 | Oatmeal Baths
Oats have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief to itchy and irritated skin. Adding finely ground oats to a bath is a comforting treatment for skin rashes.
9 | Vitamin C
High doses of vitamin C can support the immune system and may help in fighting off viral infections. Foods rich in vitamin C like oranges, berries, and kiwi are good options.
10 | Elderberry Syrup
Elderberries have been known for their antiviral properties. Consuming elderberry syrup can help support your immune system in fighting off viral infections, including HFMD.
11 | Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in minerals and amino acids that can support immune function. Drinking bone broth can be soothing and may help in recovering from HFMD faster.
12 | Manuka Honey
Manuka honey has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. Consuming a teaspoon of Manuka honey can help soothe the throat and boost immunity.
13 | Garlic
Garlic is a powerful natural antiviral. Adding extra garlic to your meals can help your body fight off the HFMD virus more effectively.
14 | Coconut Oil
Applying coconut oil to the skin can help moisturize and may also provide a mild antiviral effect. It’s a gentle alternative for treating skin symptoms in young children.
15 | Zinc Supplements
Zinc is a mineral that is crucial for the functioning of the immune system. Consult a healthcare provider before starting a zinc supplement, especially for children, but it can be a beneficial aid in fighting off viral infections.
Conclusion
HFMD most commonly appears in the late summer and early fall – right about now. It’s moderately contagious and can be hard to avoid in childcare settings. It can be hard to see your children suffer from an illness, but with the natural tips above, your child can recover quickly and comfortably.
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