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Part of the London Allergy Clinic
Diagnosis & Specialist Care of Allergy & Clinical Immunology - Since 1982
"Is this just hand, foot and mouth, or something else?" It's a common question we hear from parents — and a fair one, because the early signs (a mild fever, a bit of grumpiness, then spots) can look like several different childhood illnesses before the full picture emerges.
Hand, foot and mouth disease itself is common, usually mild, and almost always clears up within seven to ten days without any specific treatment. Most children recover at home with simple comfort measures. But "common and mild" doesn't always mean straightforward — particularly if your child's symptoms feel more severe than expected, keep returning, or simply don't add up to what you've read online.
A Few Facts Worth Knowing:
- It's caused by common viruses (usually coxsackievirus), not bacteria — which is why antibiotics don't help.
- It spreads easily among young children, especially in nursery and school settings, through coughing, sneezing and close contact.
- Most children only need rest, fluids and pain relief — there is no specific cure, because the illness simply has to run its course.
- It's possible for a child to catch it more than once, as there are several different strains of the responsible viruses
When A Further Opinion May Be Worth Seeking
Most cases don't need specialist input at all. But you might find a consultant paediatric assessment helpful if:
- Your child's symptoms feel more severe or prolonged than is typical.
- They've had several episodes that seem unusual in pattern.
- Mouth ulcers are severe enough to affect eating or drinking properly.
- You're genuinely unsure whether it's hand, foot and mouth disease or something else — including an allergic reaction.
- You'd simply value an unhurried, thorough assessment from a consultant paediatrician, beyond what a short GP appointment allows.
How We Can Help
Dr Tammy Rothenberg and Dr Emily Derrick are both Consultant Paediatricians, bringing broad general paediatric expertise alongside their specialist allergy training.
During an assessment, they'll take the time to properly consider the pattern and distribution of the rash, any associated symptoms such as fever or feeding difficulty, and — importantly — whether what you're seeing might point to an allergic skin reaction rather than a viral illness, since the two can sometimes be confused.
When To Seek Urgent Care
If your child has a high fever that won't settle, shows signs of dehydration, seems extremely lethargic, or appears seriously unwell, please seek urgent medical attention via your GP, NHS 111 or A&E rather than waiting for a clinic appointment.
If you'd like a thorough, unhurried specialist opinion, we're here to help — six days a week, with a real person always at the other end of the phone, email or WhatsApp.
📞 0207 637 9711
WhatsApp
✉ enquiries@londonallergyclinic.com
Mon–Sat, 9am–7pm
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