What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease and How to Treat Them

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It is typically characterized by symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, and a rash. Recognizing the symptoms of HFMD is crucial in order to take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of the disease and provide treatment.

One of the key signs of HFMD is the appearance of a rash. This rash usually develops on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks. It presents as small, red spots or blisters that may be itchy. However, not everyone infected with HFMD will develop a rash, so it is important to watch out for other symptoms as well.

In addition to the rash, children with HFMD often experience a sore throat. This can make swallowing and eating difficult, leading to a loss of appetite. The sore throat may also be accompanied by a mild to high fever. It is important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity from person to person, and not all individuals infected with HFMD will experience all of them.

Understanding Hand Foot and Mouth Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral infection that primarily affects young children. It is characterized by a distinctive rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. The virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease include:

• Sore throat
• Fever
• Painful sores or blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth
• Loss of appetite

In addition to these typical symptoms, some individuals may also experience headache, fatigue, and general malaise.

Causes

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease is caused by the Coxsackie virus, which belongs to the enterovirus family. It is highly contagious and can be transmitted through close contact with an infected individual, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

The virus is most commonly spread in areas with poor hygiene practices, such as childcare facilities, schools, and playgrounds. It typically peaks in late summer and early fall.

Treatments

There is no specific treatment for Hand Foot and Mouth Disease, as it is a viral infection that usually resolves on its own within 7-10 days. However, there are several measures that can be taken to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:

• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking fluids to prevent dehydration
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort
• Eating soft, cool foods to soothe mouth blisters

It is important to note that individuals with Hand Foot and Mouth Disease should avoid close contact with others, especially young children, until the symptoms have completely resolved. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, can also help prevent the spread of the virus.

If you suspect that you or your child has Hand Foot and Mouth Disease, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and guidance on managing the symptoms.

What is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a viral infection that commonly affects children, although it can also occur in adults. The disease is caused by the Coxsackievirus, which belongs to the Enterovirus genus.

The most common symptoms of HFMD include a sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash. The infection is highly contagious and can easily spread through saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. It can be transmitted by direct contact with an infected person, by touching contaminated surfaces, or by inhaling respiratory droplets.

Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

The symptoms of HFMD typically start with a fever, which is usually low-grade but can occasionally be high. This is followed by the appearance of painful mouth sores, which can make eating and drinking uncomfortable or difficult. The sores may be small and red, or they may form blisters. They often occur on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks.

In addition to the mouth sores, HFMD can also cause a rash that appears as small red spots or blisters on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The rash may also appear on the buttocks and genital area. These spots or blisters can be quite itchy and may be accompanied by mild to moderate pain.

How to Recognize Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

If you or your child develop a sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash, it is important to consider the possibility of HFMD. Other common symptoms may include headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite. While HFMD is generally a mild illness, it can cause discomfort and inconvenience, especially for young children.

If you suspect that you or your child have HFMD, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on how to manage the symptoms. The infection is usually self-limiting and will resolve on its own within a week or two. However, it is important to prevent the spread of the disease by practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with others.

In conclusion, Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral infection that primarily affects children. It is characterized by symptoms such as a sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks. The disease is highly contagious and can spread easily. If you suspect that you or your child have HFMD, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and management.

Viral Infection that Affects Children and Adults

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects children under the age of 10. However, it can also affect adults, though it is less common in this age group.

The symptoms of HFMD usually begin with a sore throat and a fever. This is followed by the appearance of small red blisters or sores on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks. The rash may also spread to other areas of the body.

This viral infection is highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person through close contact, such as saliva, respiratory droplets, or feces. It commonly spreads in places where children gather, such as schools and daycare centers.

While most cases of HFMD are mild and self-limiting, complications can arise, especially in adults. In rare cases, HFMD can lead to viral meningitis or encephalitis, which can cause serious neurological problems. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you or your child has HFMD.

There is no specific treatment for HFMD, but the symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and discomfort. It is also important to get plenty of rest, drink fluids to prevent dehydration, and maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection.

In conclusion, Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a viral infection that can affect both children and adults. Recognizing the symptoms, such as a sore throat, fever, and rash, is key to getting appropriate medical care and preventing the spread of the disease.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects young children. It is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Mouth sores
• Rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks

The most common symptom of hand, foot, and mouth disease is a fever, which can range from mild to high. Along with the fever, children may experience a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Mouth sores are another common symptom and can appear as red blisters or ulcers on the inside of the cheeks, gums, and tongue. These mouth sores can be painful and may make eating and drinking uncomfortable.

In addition to the mouth sores, a rash may also develop on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks. This rash can be red and may include small blisters or bumps. The rash typically lasts for a few days to a week and may be accompanied by itching or discomfort.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is important to seek medical attention. While hand, foot, and mouth disease is usually mild and resolves on its own, complications can occasionally occur, especially in young infants and individuals with weakened immune systems. It is also important to take measures to prevent the spread of the infection, as it is highly contagious.

Fever and Sore Throat

One of the common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease is fever. This is often one of the first signs that a person is infected with the virus. The fever can be mild or high, and it may last for several days.

In addition to fever, individuals with hand, foot, and mouth disease may also experience a sore throat. The throat may feel scratchy or painful, making it difficult to swallow. This can be particularly distressing for young children, who may be unable to express their discomfort.

It is important to note that the fever and sore throat in hand, foot, and mouth disease are usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as a rash or blisters. If you or your child experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Rash on the Hands, Feet, and Mouth

In addition to other symptoms such as fever and sore throat, one of the key indicators of hand, foot, and mouth disease is the presence of a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth.

This rash typically appears as small, red spots or blisters that can be itchy and uncomfortable. It may first appear on the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, and in and around the mouth, including the tongue and gums.

The rash is a result of the viral infection that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease. It is important to note that the rash can vary in severity from person to person, with some individuals experiencing only a mild rash while others may have more extensive rash coverage.

If you notice a rash on your hands, feet, or in your mouth, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. They can help determine if the rash is a result of hand, foot, and mouth disease or another underlying condition.

While there is no specific treatment for the rash itself, there are measures you can take to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. These may include using cool compresses, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and maintaining good hygiene practices to prevent further infection.

Blisters and Sores

One of the key symptoms of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is the development of blisters and sores on the hands, feet, and mouth. These blisters can be painful or uncomfortable, especially when eating or drinking.

The sores may start as small red spots and then develop into fluid-filled blisters. These blisters can burst, leaving behind ulcers or open sores. The blisters and sores can appear anywhere on the hands, feet, and mouth, including the fingers, palms, toes, soles, and throat.

In the mouth, these sores can be particularly uncomfortable and may cause difficulty swallowing or a sore throat. They can also make eating and drinking painful, leading to a decreased appetite and dehydration.

Causes of Blisters and Sores

The blisters and sores are a result of the viral infection that causes Hand Foot and Mouth Disease. The disease is most commonly caused by the Coxsackievirus, specifically the Coxsackievirus A16. This virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through close contact with infected individuals.

Once the virus enters the body, it starts to replicate and spread. It primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes, leading to the development of the characteristic blisters and sores.

Treatment for Blisters and Sores

There is no specific treatment for the blisters and sores caused by Hand Foot and Mouth Disease. However, there are steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort and promote healing.

It is important to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and rinsing with a mild saltwater solution to soothe the mouth sores. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help ease the pain and reduce fever.

It is also essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Cold, soft foods can provide relief for mouth sores, while avoiding acidic or spicy foods that may irritate the sores further.

In most cases, the blisters and sores caused by Hand Foot and Mouth Disease will heal on their own within one to two weeks. Seeking medical attention is recommended if the symptoms worsen or if dehydration becomes a concern.

Loss of Appetite and Irritability

Loss of appetite and irritability are common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease. The infection typically starts with a fever and sore throat, followed by the development of a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth.

During the course of the illness, children may experience a decreased desire to eat and may show signs of irritability. This loss of appetite can be concerning for parents, as it can lead to weight loss and dehydration if not managed properly.

It is important to encourage children to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Offer small, frequent meals that are easy to eat and digest, such as soft foods and liquids. It is also crucial to provide comfort and reassurance to your child during this time, as they may be feeling unwell and irritable.

If your child’s loss of appetite persists or worsens, or if they are unable to keep fluids down, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on how to manage symptoms and ensure your child receives adequate nutrition and hydration.

Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

– Fever

– Sore throat

– Rash on hands, feet, and mouth

– Loss of appetite

– Irritability

In conclusion, loss of appetite and irritability are common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease. While these symptoms can be concerning, managing them with proper nutrition and hydration is essential for your child’s recovery.

How is Hand Foot and Mouth Disease Diagnosed?

When it comes to diagnosing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, healthcare professionals will typically rely on symptoms and a physical examination of the patient. The distinctive symptoms that indicate the presence of the disease include fever, sore throat, and the appearance of small, painful blisters or ulcers in the mouth, on the hands, and on the feet.

Physical Examination

During the physical examination, a healthcare professional will carefully observe the patient’s symptoms and look for characteristic signs of the disease. They will check for the presence of blisters or ulcers in the mouth, as well as any rashes or sores on the hands and feet. This visual examination, combined with the patient’s reported symptoms, can provide valuable diagnostic information.

Differential Diagnosis

In some cases, the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease can resemble those of other infectious diseases, such as chickenpox or herpes. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, healthcare professionals may perform additional tests or consider other potential causes. This process, known as a differential diagnosis, helps to rule out other conditions and confirm the presence of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.

In conclusion, a diagnosis of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is typically based on the patient’s symptoms and a physical examination. By carefully considering the characteristic symptoms and ruling out other possible causes, healthcare professionals can confidently diagnose and treat this common childhood infection.

Prevention and Contagiousness

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person. The virus that causes HFMD can be found in an infected person’s saliva, mucus, blister fluid, and feces. It can be spread through coughing, sneezing, close contact, or touching contaminated surfaces.

Prevention Measures

To prevent the spread of HFMD, it is important to practice good hygiene. This includes:

• Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or before preparing food.
• Using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing, and disposing of tissues properly.
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.
• Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, toys, and objects with a household disinfectant.
• Keeping children home from school or daycare if they have symptoms of HFMD.

Contagiousness

HFMD is most contagious during the first week of illness. However, the virus can still be present in the body for several weeks after symptoms have resolved, making it possible to spread the disease. It is important to stay vigilant and follow preventive measures even after recovering from HFMD to avoid infecting others.

A person infected with HFMD may experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and rash. The rash typically appears on the hands, feet, and mouth, making it easy to recognize the disease. By practicing good hygiene and taking necessary precautions, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.

Frequent Handwashing and Good Hygiene Practices

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral infection that commonly affects infants and children. It is characterized by a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth, along with symptoms such as fever and sore throat. To prevent the spread of this disease, it is important to practice good hygiene, especially frequent handwashing.

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of diseases like HFMD. It helps to remove germs and bacteria from the hands, reducing the risk of infection. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the toilet, and after coughing or sneezing.

In addition to handwashing, there are other good hygiene practices that can help prevent the spread of HFMD. These include:

• Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue or the crook of your elbow.
• Avoiding close contact with individuals who have HFMD.
• Disinfecting frequently-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and toys, to kill any germs that may be present.
• Avoiding sharing utensils, cups, and bottles with individuals who have HFMD.

By practicing good hygiene, you can reduce the risk of contracting HFMD and prevent the spread of the disease to others. It is especially important to teach children about the importance of handwashing and good hygiene practices to protect themselves and those around them.

Isolation and Avoiding Close Contact

When a person is infected with Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. One of the most effective ways to do this is through isolation and avoiding close contact with others.

Since HFMD is highly contagious, it spreads easily from person to person. The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with the saliva, mucus, or fluid from the blisters of an infected individual. It can also be spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces that have been contaminated.

To prevent the spread of HFMD, individuals who are infected should stay at home and isolate themselves from others, especially young children. This helps to minimize the risk of transmission, as close contact with others can easily lead to the spread of the virus.

During the isolation period, it is important for infected individuals to avoid close contact with others, including hugging, kissing, or shaking hands. Sharing utensils, cups, or eating from the same plate should also be avoided to prevent the transmission of the virus.

Additionally, infected individuals should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent respiratory droplets from spreading the infection. They should also wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, or touching any surfaces.

Table: Tips for Isolation and Avoiding Close Contact

Precautions	Explanation
Stay at home	Infected individuals should isolate themselves from others and stay at home to minimize the risk of transmission.
Avoid close contact	Avoid hugging, kissing, shaking hands, and sharing utensils or eating from the same plate with others.
Cover mouth and nose	Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent respiratory droplets from spreading the infection.
Wash hands frequently	Infected individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, or touching any surfaces.

Disinfection of Surfaces and Toys

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is highly contagious and can easily spread through surfaces and toys. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly disinfect these items to prevent the spread of infection.

Here are some steps to effectively disinfect surfaces and toys:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling infected items.
2. Clean surfaces with a household disinfectant or a mixture of water and bleach. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product label for proper dilution and contact time.
3. Use disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting to avoid direct contact with any bodily fluids.
4. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
5. For toys that can be submerged in water, wash them with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
6. For toys that cannot be submerged, wipe them down with a disinfecting wipe or use a cloth dampened with a bleach solution.
7. Make sure to clean and disinfect any surfaces or toys that may have come into contact with the infected individual.
8. Store cleaned toys in a separate container or bag to prevent recontamination.
9. Wash any clothing or bedding that may have been in contact with the infected individual in hot water and detergent.

By following these steps, you can help reduce the spread of hand, foot, and mouth disease and keep your environment clean and safe.

How to Treat Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

Treating hand foot and mouth disease requires a combination of managing symptoms, preventing the spread of infection, and providing comfort for the affected individual.

1. Manage symptoms

Hand foot and mouth disease is characterized by symptoms such as fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet. To manage these symptoms:

• Give over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
• Encourage drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if the mouth sores make eating difficult.
• Provide soothing foods and beverages that are easy to swallow, such as popsicles, ice cream, yogurt, and warm soup.
• Use over-the-counter topical creams or ointments to relieve itching associated with the rash.

2. Prevent the spread of infection

Hand foot and mouth disease is highly contagious, so it is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
• Avoid close contact with others, particularly young children and infants.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, toys, and objects.
• Keep the affected individual home from school or daycare until they are no longer contagious.

By following these treatment and prevention strategies, you can help alleviate symptoms and minimize the spread of hand foot and mouth disease.

Managing Symptoms and Discomfort

If you or your child has been diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, it’s important to manage the symptoms and discomfort associated with the illness. Here are some strategies to help alleviate the discomfort:

• Keep hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to prevent dehydration, especially if you have a fever.
• Manage fever: Take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and alleviate any pain or discomfort.
• Relieve sore throat: Gargle with warm saltwater or use a pain-relieving throat spray to soothe a sore throat.
• Alleviate rash: Apply calamine lotion or use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and discomfort caused by the rash.
• Prevent spreading: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or using the bathroom, to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Get plenty of rest: Resting and getting enough sleep can help your body recover faster and alleviate fatigue.
• Stay home: It’s important to stay home from work or school until the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease have resolved and any fever has subsided.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for specific advice and guidance on managing the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Medications

While hand foot and mouth disease is generally a mild and self-limiting condition, there are some home remedies and over-the-counter medications that can help relieve the symptoms and manage the discomfort associated with the infection.

1. Rash and Foot Pain Relief

One of the most common symptoms of hand foot and mouth disease is the development of a rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks. To alleviate discomfort and itching caused by the rash, it is important to keep the affected areas clean and dry. Applying a gentle, hypoallergenic lotion can also provide relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce foot pain and alleviate any associated fever.

2. Mouth Sore Relief

The mouth sores that develop with hand foot and mouth disease can make eating and drinking painful. To ease the discomfort, it is recommended to consume cool and soft foods, such as yogurt, ice cream, and popsicles. Avoid spicy and acidic foods, as they can irritate the sores. Over-the-counter oral analgesics, such as benzocaine gels, can also provide temporary pain relief.

It is important to note that these home remedies and over-the-counter medications only provide symptomatic relief and do not treat the underlying infection. If you or your child is experiencing severe symptoms or if the condition does not improve after a few days, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

Remember, hand foot and mouth disease is highly contagious, so practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand-washing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, is essential to prevent the spread of the disease.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you or your child experiences any of the following symptoms associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease, it is important to seek medical attention:

Fever

A high Fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) that does not respond to over-the-counter fever reducers.

Sore Throat

A severe sore throat that makes it difficult to swallow or talk.

Rash

A rash that appears as small blisters or red spots on the hands, feet, or mouth. This rash may be painful or itchy.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to visit a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can help provide relief for these symptoms and monitor the progression of the disease.

Please note that hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection that typically resolves on its own within a week or two. However, seeking medical attention can help ensure proper care and reduce the risk of complications.

Common Symptoms	When to Seek Medical Attention
Fever	If the fever is above 101°F and does not respond to over-the-counter fever reducers
Sore Throat	If the sore throat is severe and makes it difficult to swallow or talk
Rash	If a rash appears on the hands, feet, or mouth and is painful or itchy

Q&A:

What are the common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease?

The common symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease include fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks.

Is hand, foot, and mouth disease contagious?

Yes, hand, foot, and mouth disease is highly contagious. It spreads through close contact with an infected person’s saliva, blister fluid, or stool.

How long does hand, foot, and mouth disease last?

The duration of hand, foot, and mouth disease can vary, but it usually lasts for about a week. Most children recover without any complications.

How can hand, foot, and mouth disease be treated?

There is no specific treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease. However, you can manage the symptoms by giving pain relievers for fever and discomfort, offering cool fluids and soft foods, and practicing good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus.

Can adults get hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Yes, although hand, foot, and mouth disease is more common in children, adults can also get infected. However, it tends to be milder in adults compared to children.

What is hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It is characterized by a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth.

What are the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease?

The symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease include fever, sore throat, reduced appetite, and a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. Some children may also experience blisters and ulcers on these areas.

How is hand, foot, and mouth disease diagnosed?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination. However, in some cases, a doctor may take a sample from a blister or throat swab to confirm the presence of the virus.

How long does hand, foot, and mouth disease last?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease typically lasts for about 7 to 10 days. However, the rash and blisters may take up to 2 weeks to completely heal.

Is there a treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease?

There is no specific treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease. The symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, oral rinses for mouth sores, and plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.