Symptom 9: Sunken Eyes – A Warning Sign
Sunken eyes, while perhaps one of the less-discussed symptoms of HFMD, can be quite jarring for parents and caregivers. The once sparkly, vivacious eyes of a child appearing hollow is undeniably unsettling. But what causes it? More often than not, it’s a sign of dehydration. When a child’s intake of fluids doesn’t compensate for what’s being lost, primarily through fever or reduced intake due to pain, their eyes can appear notably sunken. It serves as a visual distress signal, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.
Understanding dehydration is crucial. It’s not just about feeling thirsty. Dehydration, especially in the context of illnesses like HFMD, can have a domino effect. When the body doesn’t get the fluids it needs, vital functions can be impacted. Think of it as a car running without enough oil; friction increases, and performance drops. For the body, this might manifest as fatigue, dry skin, and yes, those sunken eyes. Moreover, with HFMD causing painful sores in the mouth and throat, children are often resistant to drinking fluids, further exacerbating dehydration.
Combatting dehydration requires a multifaceted approach, especially when the child is in pain. Force-feeding isn’t the solution. Instead, think in terms of palatability and frequency. Cold fluids can provide relief to sore throats. Fruit popsicles, clear broths, diluted juices, or simply cold water can work wonders. What’s essential is frequency. If a child is reluctant to drink a full glass of water, offering smaller amounts more frequently can achieve the same objective.
While sunken eyes are a clear indicator, other signs can signal dehydration. Dry, cracked lips, lethargy, a decrease in urine frequency or darker-than-usual urine are all red flags. It’s like putting together pieces of a puzzle. Each sign is crucial, and collectively they paint a clearer picture of the child’s hydration status.
As worrisome as sunken eyes can be, the silver lining is that with proper hydration strategies, this symptom is reversible. The child’s return to hydration will be mirrored in the renewed vivacity in their eyes. For caregivers, it becomes a balancing act between managing HFMD symptoms and ensuring hydration, but with attentiveness and persistence, the tides can be turned. (9)
