Severity of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease and Its Complications

Question

How serious is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease usually heals on its own within seven to ten days. However, a very few patients may experience complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and pulmonary edema, which are primarily caused by EV71 virus infection and can be life-threatening in severe cases. Severe symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease include neurological abnormalities such as lack of energy, headache, and tremors in limbs, as well as respiratory abnormalities like increased or decreased breathing rate and irregular rhythm.