My 21mth old son was diagnosised with this on Sunday and is having a rough time. He is eating very little and drinking OK - milk, milkshakes and water. He is not sleeping for more than an hour at a time and then cries and I am not able to provide much comfort. Does anyone have any comforting suggestions beside Tylenol/Motrin? How long does this usually last? Also, I have a three month old and we are being very careful but are worried she'll still get this. Any advice is welcome.
All three of my kids had that about 2-3 weeks ago. They wwere miserable for 2 days then by day number 3 they were starting to feel ok. I don't know what day you are on, but it only lasted a little while for us. Tylenol and Motrin and soft foods were the best.
You could try an oatmeal bath for the hand and foot part. Our DS had this a few months ago, and jello seemed to be a big hit. We could get by adding applesauce, but not much else for nutrition. Also, overcooked noodles seemed to be okay, either macaroni, or some other easy-to-eat shape. For us it was just about 2 or 3 days, if I recall. No one else in the family got it, but his older brother was old enough that it may just have been an age thing. If I recall right from my years in the drs. office, it's only of concern for pregnant women in their middle trimester. Otherwise, I don't remember the doctors worrying. Handwashing is the best defense in that area.
Here's some information from my pediatrician's website regarding the virus. I am sorry I don't have a firsthand account to provide for you but I hope this helps.
http://stapleton.pediatricweb.com/web145/pedwebarticle1.asp
Best wishes!
K.-bummer! I know from experience that HFM is NOT fun for anybody. Unfortunately, I do not have any suggestions other than time. My ped also suggested Motrin/Tylenol, lots of patience, and feed them when they will eat. My little one also did the cold drinks and ice cream just for comfort of the mouth. We also made sure to cover the blisters on his feet when he walks so that they did not pop open. I have also heard something about antacid but do not remember what it was-so maybe check into that. It took about a week for it to start to get better. I will pray for you!
