What Kind of Doctor Should I See If I’m Worried about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a common viral illness, primarily affecting young children. Most cases are mild and self-limiting, meaning they resolve on their own without specific medical treatment. Therefore, your family doctor or pediatrician is well-equipped to diagnose and manage the majority of HFMD cases. They can provide guidance on symptom relief and advise on when to seek further medical attention. However, in certain situations, referral to a specialist may be necessary. If the symptoms are severe or unusually prolonged, such as high fever, dehydration, or neurological symptoms, an infectious disease specialist may be consulted. These specialists can provide more specialized care for complicated cases or if there are concerns about potential complications.