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Herpangina
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What is herpangina? |
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Herpangina is an illness caused by a virus, characterized by small blister-like bumps or ulcers that appear in the mouth, usually in the back of throat or the roof of the mouth. The child often has a high fever with the illness. |
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What causes herpangina? |
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Herpangina is caused by a virus. The most common viruses that cause herpangina include the following: |
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- Coxsackie virus.
- Echoviru.
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Herpangina is a very common disease in children and is usually seen in children between the ages of 1 and 4. It is seen most often in the summer and fall. Good handwashing is necessary to help prevent the spread of the disease. |
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What are the symptoms of herpangina? |
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The following are the most common symptoms of herpangina. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: |
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- Blister-like bumps in the mouth, usually in the back of the throat and on the roof of the mouth.
- Headache.
- Quick onset of fever.
- High fever, sometimes up to 106 º F.
- Pain in the mouth or throat.
- Drooling.
- Decrease in appetite.
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How is herpangina diagnosed? |
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Herpangina is usually diagnosed based on a complete history and physical examination of your child. The lesions of herpangina are unique and usually allow for a diagnosis simply on physical examination. |
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Treatment for herpangina: |
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Specific treatment for herpangina will be determined by your child's physician based on: |
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- Your child's age, overall health, and medical history.
- Extent of the disease.
- Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies.
- Expectations for the course of the disease.
- Your opinion or preference.
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The goal of treatment for herpangina is to help decrease the severity of the symptoms. Since it is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective. Treatment may include: |
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- Increased fluid intake.
- Aacetaminophen for any fever.
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Proper handwashing is essential in helping to prevent the disease from being spread to other children.
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