Red flags & when to go in person for Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease - Triage

Audience: adult

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that often affects children but can also occur in adults. It usually causes fever, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. Most people recover without needing medical treatment. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include difficulty swallowing, dehydration, high fever lasting more than three days, or worsening symptoms. Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms, provide advice, and guide you on care at home. It cannot perform physical exams or urgent treatments. Knowing when to seek in-person care is important to avoid complications. This guide helps you recognize red flags and understand how telemedicine fits into managing HFMD safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth — seek urgent in-person care.
• Signs of dehydration such as very dry mouth, little or no urination, or dizziness — get evaluated promptly.
• High fever lasting more than three days or worsening symptoms — see a healthcare provider in person.

What telemedicine can do

• Symptom assessment and guidance for mild HFMD cases.
• Advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining when in-person care is needed.
• Answering general questions about HFMD.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests.
• Treating severe symptoms or complications.
• Managing dehydration requiring IV fluids.
• Emergency interventions for neurological symptoms.

What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is caused by viruses, most often coxsackievirus. It spreads through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms usually start with fever and sore throat, followed by painful mouth sores and a rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks. The illness typically lasts 7 to 10 days and is most common in young children but can affect adults too.

Common Symptoms and Course

Typical symptoms include:

Most people recover fully without complications. Symptoms often improve within a week to 10 days. Good hygiene and supportive care like fluids and pain relief help recovery.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly:

These could indicate complications needing urgent evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to consult a healthcare provider remotely. It can help by:

Telemedicine is convenient and reduces exposure risk but cannot replace physical exams or emergency treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your tele-visit:

Clear communication helps your provider give the best advice.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow these steps after your appointment:

If you feel worse or have new concerns, seek immediate care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms and when they began.
• Note any medications you are taking and allergies.
• Prepare to describe or show your rash and mouth sores via video.
• Have a quiet, well-lit space for your telemedicine visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Keep hydrated and use pain relief as recommended.
• Monitor for any red flag symptoms that require urgent care.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if symptoms worsen.
• Contact your provider if you have new or worsening symptoms.

FAQs

Is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease contagious?

Yes, HFMD spreads easily through close contact, respiratory droplets, and touching contaminated surfaces. Good hand hygiene helps prevent spread.

Can adults get Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Yes, adults can get HFMD, though it is more common in children. Adults may have milder or similar symptoms.

How long does Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease last?

Symptoms usually last 7 to 10 days. Most people recover fully without complications.

Can I treat Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease at home?

Yes, most cases can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relief. Avoid spicy or acidic foods that may irritate mouth sores.

When should I see a doctor in person?

Seek in-person care if you have difficulty swallowing, signs of dehydration, high fever lasting more than three days, or worsening symptoms as described in the red flags section.

Sources

1. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and treatment. If you experience any red flag symptoms or worsening condition, seek immediate medical care.