Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness often associated with young children, but it can also affect adults. While typically milder in adults, some individuals may experience more pronounced symptoms or even remain asymptomatic.
Distinct Symptoms in Adults
Initial symptoms in adults often resemble a common viral infection, including fever, a sore throat, general malaise, and a reduced appetite. These symptoms usually appear three to seven days after exposure to the virus. Fever can sometimes be high, and a painful sore throat may make swallowing difficult.
A characteristic non-itchy rash typically develops a few days later. This rash commonly appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks, groin, abdomen, or back. The spots can be red, pink, or darker than the surrounding skin, depending on skin tone, and may evolve into small, fluid-filled blisters that can be painful. In some instances, the rash might be less noticeable or absent entirely in adults.
Painful blisters or ulcers can also form inside the mouth, on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks, which can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. Other potential symptoms in adults include headache, muscle aches, joint pain, and significant fatigue.
How Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Spreads
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease is primarily caused by enteroviruses, with Coxsackievirus A16 being the most frequent culprit in the United States. Other strains, such as Coxsackievirus A6 and Enterovirus 71, can also cause the illness, with Coxsackievirus A6 sometimes leading to more severe symptoms. The virus spreads easily from person to person.
Transmission commonly occurs through direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, including fluid from blisters, saliva, nasal discharge, or stool. Inhaling virus-contaminated air from coughs or sneezes can also lead to infection. Indirect contact is another common pathway, where an adult might touch contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs or toys, and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth. Individuals are typically most contagious during the first week of illness, but they can continue to spread the virus for several days or even weeks after symptoms have subsided, or even if they never develop symptoms.
Managing Symptoms and Recovery
There is no specific antiviral medication for Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body’s recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate general pain and discomfort. It is important to avoid aspirin, especially in children, due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
For painful mouth sores, rinsing with warm saltwater can provide some relief. Numbing mouthwashes or sprays are also available to help ease the discomfort and make swallowing easier. Staying well-hydrated is important, particularly if mouth sores make it difficult to drink; cool fluids, ice chips, or popsicles can be soothing. Rest allows the immune system to combat the virus effectively. Symptoms typically resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days for most adults.
When to Consult a Doctor
While Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease is generally a mild illness in adults, certain situations warrant medical attention. It is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms do not begin to improve within 7 to 10 days, or if they worsen significantly. Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or excessive thirst, indicate a need for medical evaluation.
Seek immediate medical advice for severe symptoms like a very high fever, intense headache, stiff neck, persistent vomiting, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Neurological symptoms, including seizures, confusion, or unusual drowsiness, also require urgent medical assessment. If the rash shows signs of bacterial infection, such as pus, increased redness, or swelling around the blisters, a doctor should be consulted. Individuals with weakened immune systems or those who are pregnant should seek prompt medical advice if they suspect they have contracted HFMD.