What is the treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease?

The appropriate treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease primarily focuses on supportive care, as the condition is viral in nature and typically self-limiting. Patients often experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and lesions in the mouth and on the hands and feet. Since the illness is caused by enteroviruses, including coxsackievirus, antiviral medications are not effective in treating the virus itself.

Supportive care plays a crucial role in managing the symptoms. Antipyretics, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be administered to alleviate fever and discomfort. Hydration is also important, especially if oral lesions cause difficulty in drinking fluids. Providing soft, soothing foods and ensuring the child is comfortable can help in the recovery process.

Other treatments listed are not suitable for hand, foot, and mouth disease. Intravenous antibiotics are specific to bacterial infections and do not address viral infections. Long-term corticosteroid therapy is generally not indicated for this viral disease, as it does not alter the course of the infection and may lead to additional complications by suppressing the immune response.