Herpangina is an infection that causes painful blisters inside the mouth. It can be very painful, but it seldom causes any long-term damage. The blisters last for three to six days and can be found on the tongue, tonsils, throat, soft palate and other areas of the mouth. In addition, these sores are often accompanied by a fever, which can be severe (between 104 and 106 degrees).
Onset
While herpangina is most commonly found in children ages 3 to 10, anyone can develop it. Herpangina most commonly pops up during the summer and early autumn, and tends to occur in epidemics in areas where close physical contact is common, such as schools or day-care facilities. Unlike strep throat or other oral viruses, herpangina cannot be cured with antibiotics.
Treatment
Like the common cold, treating herpangina means treating the symptoms and easing the patient's discomfort. For children, this means ensuring they get the proper amounts of fluids and food, because herpangina can cause painful swallowing and a loss of appetite. Offer a bland, soft diet devoid of salt, spices and citrus to lessen the pain of eating. Apple juice and warm chicken broth are appropriate for young children, and older children can suck on hard candy or gargle with salt water to reduce discomfort. Cold drinks and milkshakes also can ease the pain.
Medication
Pain relievers containing acetaminophen are effective in treating fever, headache and body aches associated with herpangina. Over-the-counter medications are also recommended to battle secondary symptoms such as runny nose, vomiting or diarrhea. Topical medications containing benzocaine or xylocaine, such as Anbesol or Orajel, can be applied to the sores. A physician need not be consulted unless the mouth sores, sore throat or fever do not subside after five days. Herpangina rarely lasts longer than a week or results in any serious symptoms or permanent damage. There have been a very small number of cases in which cardiopulminary failure has occurred, and these mostly involve children less than one year old. Common hygienic techniques such as hand-washing will help you avoid contracting herpangina.
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