What Is Herpangina?

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Most children go through a string of illnesses, particularly when they are very young, while they are building up their immunities. Herpangina is a viral illness that can cause several symptoms, the most striking of which is groups of ulcers on the inside of the mouth and the throat. The good news is that it rarely develops into anything life-threatening.

Once children have developed a strong immune system, their chances of contracting herpangina lower significantly. It is still possible, however, for older children and adults to catch the virus. Knowing what to look for can lead to faster diagnosis and a smoother recovery.

1. What Are the Symptoms of Herpangina?

When children are exposed to herpangina, their symptoms can appear in two to five days. A few general symptoms, such as a sudden high fever, sore throat and headaches, show up first. Most parents think their children simply have a bad cold when the infection starts.

After a couple of days, you can begin to see small, gray blisters in your child’s mouth and throat. This is the telltale sign of herpangina. Other symptoms may also appear, such as neck pain, difficulty swallowing and loss of appetite. Babies may vomit or drool more than usual.