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How to make hand, foot, and mouth stop itching?

Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection primarily affecting children, characterized by painful mouth sores and an itchy rash on the hands and feet. While the disease is generally mild, the discomfort it causes can be significant, leading many to seek effective ways to alleviate the itching associated with the rash.
Causes of Itching in HFMD
The itching associated with HFMD is primarily due to the viral infection that causes inflammation and irritation of the skin. The rash typically appears as red spots that may develop into blisters, which can be quite uncomfortable. In addition to the rash, the presence of mouth sores can exacerbate the overall discomfort, making it difficult for affected individuals to eat or drink.
Effective Remedies for Itching Relief
To manage the itching associated with HFMD, several strategies can be employed:
1. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams and ointments designed for itchy skin can provide relief. Look for products containing calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream, which can help soothe irritated skin.
2. Antihistamines: Oral antihistamines may be beneficial in reducing itching. These medications can help alleviate allergic reactions and provide some relief from the discomfort caused by the rash. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for recommendations on the appropriate antihistamine and dosage.
3. Moisturizers: Keeping the skin hydrated is crucial. Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help prevent dryness and reduce itching. This is particularly important after bathing, as it helps lock in moisture.
4. Avoiding Irritants: It’s essential to avoid any products that may irritate the skin further, such as harsh soaps or lotions with strong fragrances. Opt for mild, hypoallergenic products instead.
5. Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas can provide immediate relief from itching. This method can help soothe inflamed skin and reduce the urge to scratch.
6. Dietary Considerations: For those experiencing mouth sores, avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help minimize pain and discomfort, which indirectly may reduce the urge to scratch or rub the affected areas.
7. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial, especially if mouth sores make it painful to eat or drink. Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration, which can worsen overall discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While HFMD is typically mild and self-limiting, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. If the itching becomes severe, if there are signs of secondary infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pus), or if the individual is unable to maintain hydration due to mouth sores, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They may prescribe stronger medications or provide additional treatment options to alleviate symptoms.
In conclusion, while hand, foot, and mouth disease can be uncomfortable, there are several effective strategies to manage itching and discomfort. By employing topical treatments, antihistamines, and proper skincare, individuals can find relief and navigate through this common viral infection with greater ease.

Should you moisturize your hand, foot, and mouth?

If mouth sores are particularly bothersome, ask your doctor for treatments that may ease discomfort like lidocaine gel or magic mouthwash (usually not used in kids younger than 6 years of age). For skin rashes, a physician may recommend moisturizers. Symptoms do get better within 7 to 10 days for most people.

How to make hand, foot, mouth rash go away faster?

There’s no specific treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease. Symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease usually clear up in 7 to 10 days. A topical oral anesthetic may help relieve the pain of mouth sores.

How long is hand foot and mouth itchy?

The spots and blisters can sometimes be itchy or uncomfortable and usually last up to 10 days.

How to stop itchy hands and feet?

Short-term use of nonprescription corticosteroid cream may offer short-term relief of itchy, inflamed skin. Or try calamine lotion or creams with menthol (Sarna, others), camphor, capsaicin, or a topical anesthetic, such as pramoxine (adults only).

What days are the worst with hand, foot, and mouth?

The symptoms from hand, foot, and mouth disease tend to be the worst for the very first few days but should be completely gone but in some cases, it can take up to a week.

What are the worst days of HFm?

Symptoms are the worst in the first few days but are usually completely gone within a week.

Does Benadryl help with hand foot and mouth?

If the blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet are associated with burning, ice packs may help. Benadryl may also help alleviate burning or itching associated with the blisters. Emollients are helpful for peeling skin, and popsicles may help with throat pain.

How can I soothe my hand, foot, and mouth at night?

To help with the symptoms:

  • drink cool fluids to soothe the mouth and prevent dehydration – avoid acidic drinks such as fruit juice.
  • eat soft foods like yoghurt – avoid hot and spicy foods.
  • take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help ease a sore mouth or throat.

Should you moisturize hand foot mouth rash?

If mouth sores are particularly bothersome, ask your doctor for treatments that may ease discomfort like lidocaine gel or magic mouthwash (usually not used in kids younger than 6 years of age). For skin rashes, a physician may recommend moisturizers. Symptoms do get better within 7 to 10 days for most people.

How do I stop my hand foot and mouth from itching?

Over-the-counter children’s moisturizing lotion to relieve itching. Keeping your child hydrated with plenty of cold liquids (your child may not want to drink if the mouth sores hurt them, but staying hydrated is important)

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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