HFMD looks scary but almost always heals on its own in 7-10 days! Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is very common in children under 10, especially during monsoon. There's no cure, but these home remedies from Indian traditions and modern medicine can help your child feel comfortable while the virus runs its course.
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HFMD is a viral infection that causes:
Key facts:
Seek immediate medical care if:
See doctor if:
1. Cold Foods and Drinks
2. Salt Water Gargle (Namak Paani)
3. Coconut Water (Nariyal Paani)
4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
5. Coconut Oil
1. Neem (Indian Lilac)
2. Aloe Vera Gel
3. Coconut Oil
4. Calamine Lotion
Hydration (Sabse Zaroori!)
Soft Foods
Fever Management
Rest and Sleep (Neend)
| Remedy | How to Use | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Tulsi tea | Boil leaves, add honey | Antimicrobial, soothing |
| Neem bath | Add neem water to bath | Soothes rashes |
| Turmeric milk | Haldi doodh, lukewarm | Immunity boost |
| Coconut water | 2-3 times daily | Hydration + antiviral |
| Dahi/Yogurt | Plain, cold | Probiotics + soothing |
| Give (Achha) | Avoid (Mat Do) |
|---|---|
| Cold milk, ice cream | Hot chai, soup |
| Khichdi, dalia | Spicy food |
| Curd, buttermilk | Citrus (orange, nimbu) |
| Coconut water | Chips, namkeen |
| Soft idli | Acidic foods |
| Mashed banana | Carbonated drinks |
HFMD is VERY contagious!
| Day | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Fever, sore throat |
| 2-3 | Mouth sores appear, eating difficult |
| 3-5 | Rash on hands, feet |
| 5-7 | Fever goes, sores healing |
| 7-10 | Most symptoms resolved |
| 2-4 weeks later | Nail peeling (normal!) |
A: This is the hardest part of HFMD - mouth sores are very painful! Focus on: cold foods (yes, ice cream is okay!), soft bland foods, and most importantly FLUIDS. It's okay if child doesn't eat solids for 2-3 days as long as they're drinking. Watch for signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, less urination).
A: Remedies don't "cure" HFMD - the virus needs to run its course (7-10 days). But remedies help manage symptoms and keep child comfortable. You'll see improvement gradually. Fever usually goes first (3-5 days), then rash starts fading, mouth sores last longest.
A: NO! HFMD is caused by a VIRUS, and antibiotics only work on bacteria. Giving antibiotics won't help and may cause side effects. Only give antibiotics if doctor prescribes for a secondary bacterial infection (rare).
A: Wait until: fever gone for 24 hours AND mouth sores healing AND blisters drying. Usually 5-7 days from symptom start. Inform school about diagnosis. Child remains contagious through stool for weeks, but most schools allow return once acute symptoms resolve.
A: Very likely! HFMD spreads easily among siblings. Incubation period is 3-6 days, so symptoms may appear soon. Practice good hygiene but prepare for other family members to get it too. Good news: usually mild in everyone. Adults can get it but typically have milder symptoms.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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