I still remember the day it started — a slight fever, extra clinginess, and refusal to eat her favourite porridge. I knew something was off. A quick check at the clinic confirmed it: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). As a mum, hearing those words was enough to send me into worry mode. But we got through it — one day at a time — and I’m sharing what helped us, in case it helps you too.
Day 1: The Fever & Fussiness
The first day was all about the fever. She wasn’t eating, didn’t want to be touched much, and kept pointing to her mouth. That night, small red spots started to appear on her palms and feet. I kept her hydrated with lots of water and cold fruit purees — anything soothing on her sore throat. I gave her Ahgiya's Magic Potion — our go-to for immunity support — and added Vitamin D to her routine (just 1 drop a day), which our paediatrician had always recommended for general immune health.
Day 2-3: The Blister & Ulcer Stage
The dreaded blisters appeared, especially in her mouth. She cried when swallowing, and every meal felt like a battle. It was honestly heartbreaking. We did what we could — served cool, smooth porridges from Ahgiya’s stash, chilled fruit purees, and even breastmilk popsicles.
But here’s the part that might make some people raise their eyebrows — call us bad parents if you must, but we took a bold step. After days of her barely eating and crying through every mouthful, we decided to dab salt directly on the mouth ulcers. Yes, salt. Yes, murder cry. It was awful to watch, but we were desperate and had heard it could help. And honestly? It worked. She started eating properly the very next day. Sometimes, old-school remedies really do the trick.
We skipped baths and did gentle sponge wipes. Some cream on the rashes helped with the itching, and I kept her nails short to prevent scratching.
Day 4-5: Slowly Getting Better
The fever was gone, and the appetite came back in small bites. Her energy was returning too. We continued with the Magic Potion, gave her more immune-boosting foods like avocado and broth, and kept her home to rest and recover.
What Helped Us Most
Magic Potion & Vitamin D: Gentle daily support for her immune system.
Salt on mouth ulcers: It stung like crazy, but helped her turn a corner with feeding.
Cold, soft foods: Ahgiya porridges, smoothies, and popsicles to soothe her mouth.
Comfort & Cuddles: Lots of them. She just needed us close.
Cleaning & hygiene: Constant handwashing and toy disinfecting to protect others.
Mum to Mum
HFMD is tough — physically and emotionally. Watching your little boss suffer is never easy, but you’re stronger than you think. Take it day by day, and follow your instincts. Whether it's natural remedies, immune boosters, or just loads of cuddles, trust that you're doing your best.
Ahgiya is here to support you — with food, care tips, and a whole lot of heart.
Hwaiting & till next week, parents!