Hand-foot-and-mouth disease history and symptoms

History and Symptoms
It is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters. HFMD begins with a mild fever, poor appetite, malaise ("feeling sick"), and frequently a sore throat. One or 2 days after the fever begins, painful sores develop in the mouth. They begin as small red spots that blister and then often become ulcers. They are usually located on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks. The skin rash develops over 1 to 2 days with flat or raised red spots, some with blisters. The rash does not itch, and it is usually located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It may also appear on the buttocks. A person with HFMD may have only the rash or the mouth ulcers.

Symptoms

 * Fever
 * Headache
 * Loss of appetite
 * Rash with very small blisters on hands, feet, and diaper area; may be tender or painful if pressed
 * Sore throat
 * Ulcers in the throat (including tonsils), mouth, and tongue