You can't take antibiotics or medicines to cure hand, foot and mouth disease – it has to run its course. It usually gets better in 7 to 10 days
To help with the symptoms:
- Drink fluids to prevent dehydration – avoid acidic drinks such as fruit juice
- Eat soft foods like soup – avoid hot and spicy foods
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help ease a sore mouth or throat
A pharmacist can help with hand, foot and mouth disease
Speak to your pharmacist for advice about treatments, such as mouth ulcer gels, sprays and mouthwashes to relieve pain
They can tell you which ones are suitable for children
See your GP if:
- Your symptoms don't improve after 7 to 10 days
- You or your child has a very high temperature, or feels hot and shivery
- You're worried about your child's symptoms
- Your child is dehydrated – they're not peeing as often as usual
- You're pregnant and get hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is infectious. Check with your GP surgery before going. They may suggest a phone consultation.