Parents: Is Your Child Suffering from Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis?
All parents want the best for their children. No parent wants to see a child suffer. Unfortunately, some children are suffering. They are suffering from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Yes, arthritis does hurt more than the elderly. For many parents, arthritis is easy to spot. For others little to no signs are shown. If your child is experiencing pain and discomfort, how do you know the cause?
The most common symptom of arthritis is pain. This pain is felt in the joints. Any joint is susceptible to pain. With that said, parents should be on the lookout for pain in the fingers, toes, elbows, knees, and hips. Children suffer from three types of rheumatoid arthritis. They are Pauciarticular, Polyarticular, and Systemic. Pauciarticular is the most common, and thankfully, the mildest. Polyarticular and Systemic arthritis can lead to severe, if not unbearable pain.
Pain is the most noticeable sign that something is wrong. Children are unable to manage pain as well as adults. For parents, this means many signs. Older children will highlight their pain and even point you in the right direction. Young children may experience a change in temperament. For some, it is the only way to express their pain and frustration.
Additional symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis include joint swelling and stiffness, difficulty walking, and troubled sleep. In terms of walking, parents must watch and listen to their children. Older children still do not fully understand the importance of seeking medical care. For example, a 6th grader may fear to discuss their joint pain, as it may cause them to miss their next basketball game. In this instance, parents need to look for signs. If your child not only has pain, but difficulty completing normal tasks, rheumatoid arthritis may be the cause.
If you are a parent who suspects your child may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, the next step is important. That step is seeking medical care. Many parents fear the unneeded medications their child will be required to take. Cross that bridge when you come to it. For now, it is important to get a proper diagnosis. The physician will ask why arthritis is suspected and perform their own tests. They will also determine which type of arthritis the child is suffering from.
If a child is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, pain medication is typically administered right away. This will not only assist with the pain but the swelling too. Depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms, pain medication may become a daily occurrence. As a parent, this may cause you some concern. Now is the time you can examine natural and home remedies. When doing so, you will find many options. For example, most recommend mixing one teaspoon of honey, a teaspoon of lemon juice, warm water, and drinking twice a day.
Parents are encouraged to proceed with caution with home remedies for arthritis. Most remedies are designed for adults. Do not dispense anything to your child that will result in an allergic reaction. Also, make the suggestion to their primary care provider. Most doctors are expanding their horizons, no longer writing off natural remedies as rubbish.
Pain medication and some natural remedies will assist with the pain. Although pain diminishes, the disease is still present. To reduce long-term complications, exercise is required. Most children undergo physical therapy. Parents are encouraged to attend to learn the moves for home practice. Parents with overweight children are encouraged to combine healthy eating with exercise. Weight loss can lessen the pressure placed on joints.
As you can see, it is not the end of the world when a child is diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Yes, no parent wants to see his or her child in pain, but with treatment, that pain does not have to last. In fact, most children outgrow the disease. So, if you suspect your child is suffering from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, seek medical treatment. Work with their primary care physician to develop the best treatment plan.
Juvenile Arthritis: What It Is and Treatment Options
When it comes to arthritis, we automatically think of the elderly. Yes, they are the common sufferers of this debilitating condition. But, did you know that there are over one hundred different types of arthritis? There are. One of those is juvenile arthritis.
As previously stated, there are over one hundred different types of arthritis. There are different reasons for pain and that pain is felt in different areas of the body, but there is a pain. With arthritis, it is always there. With juvenile arthritis, children experience this pain. Unfortunately, children are unable to manage and deal with pain as well as mature adults.
In terms of juvenile arthritis alone, there are three types. All are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. What are they?
Pauciarticular is the most commonly diagnosed in children. Luckily, it is the mildest. Pain is often experienced in the ankles, knees, fingers, elbows, and hips; however, any joint can hurt.
Systemic is another type of juvenile arthritis, but it is rarely diagnosed. It is much less common. Unfortunately, complications are common. Pain is severe and often unbearable. Every joint in the body is susceptible to pain. It can also spread to other body organs.
Polyarticular is the third known type of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is not as common as Pauciarticular arthritis but is more painful. This is easy to spot, as children can rarely manage or hide the pain on their own. More joints are affected. According to WebMD and other trusted medical sources, this disease progresses and gets worse over time.
What causes arthritis in children? Experts are unable to agree on a single answer. Through extensive research, most believe juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an overactive immune system. This immune style attacks the joint tissues. A virus can temporarily cause this, but specific genes lead to long-term attacks. A family history of arthritis may increase a child’s risk.
Aside from Polyarticular arthritis, which can lead to additional complications, most children outgrow the disease. Successful treatment improves the chances. Although most children will outgrow the disease, parents and caretakers must focus on the present. Children suffering from arthritis will experience excruciating and unbearable pain. Without treatment, they will find it difficult to function from day-to-day.
For parents and caretakers, it is difficult to spot the warning signs in young children, especially toddlers. Many do not know how to convey their pain or the pain is so severe it is difficult to describe. In addition to joint pain, those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis have difficulty sleeping, walking, experience joint swelling, and stiffness.
What type of treatment is available? Luckily, children suffering from arthritis have many options. First, medical care is recommended. Long-term health complications can arise if the disease is not properly treated and diagnosed. Parents concerned with treatment should first wait until they have a proper diagnosis. When that diagnosis arrives, pain medication is given. It may be needed on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, pain medications are damaging to the body. Over-consumption can cause complications. For that reason, parents and caretakers must understand the importance of exercise. Pain medication is not the only way to seek relief. Physical therapy will be short-lived, but parents and patients are encouraged to continue the practice at home. Constant movement can be difficult for children who experience pain, but it is necessary. Movement prevents stiffness and deformities.
Many medical professionals recommend surgery to relieve arthritis pain in adults. This is rare in children. As previously stated, most children outgrow juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The risk of complications is too great in most cases. If the treatment proves unsuccessful, surgery may be considered, but it is rare.
In short, rheumatoid arthritis affects individuals of all ages; it does not discriminate. If you are a parent or know a child who suffers from severe joint pain or difficulty moving, do not discount rheumatoid arthritis. It may be to blame.
Does juvenile rheumatoid arthritis ever go away?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA): Does JRA Ever Go Away …https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/juvenile/
…https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/juvenile/Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA): Does JRA Ever Go Away? Children can develop many of the same types of arthritis that adults do. Around 300,000 minors have been diagnosed with an arthritic disease. However, unlike adults with similar diagnoses, children with appropropriate treatment can live long and active lives. Oct 27, 2018 Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA): Does JRA Ever Go Away …https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/juvenile/Search for: Does juvenile rheumatoid arthritis ever go away?
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): Pathology & Clinical Presentation – Pediatrics | LecturioWhat are the symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA): Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis …https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosing-juvenile-arthritis
..https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosing-juvenile-arthritisSymptoms of juvenile arthritis may include:Joint stiffness, especially in the morning.Pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints.Limping (In younger children, it may appear that the child is not able to perform motor skills he or she recently learned.)Persistent fever.Rash.Weight loss.Fatigue.Irritability.More items…•May 16, 2017Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA): Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis …https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosing-juvenile-arthritisSearch for: What are the symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis?
How long does juvenile rheumatoid arthritis last?
Juvenile Arthritis – American College of Rheumatology….https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases…/Juvenile-Arthritis
….https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Juvenile-ArthritisThis inflammation begins before patients reach the age of 16, and symptoms must last more than 6 weeks to be called chronic. JIA may involve one or many joints, and may also affect the eyes. It can cause other symptoms such as fevers or rash. Systemic onset JIA affects about ten percent of children with arthritis.Juvenile Arthritis – American College of Rheumatology…https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases…/Juvenile-ArthritisSearch for: How long does juvenile rheumatoid arthritis last?
Is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis curable?
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treatment – Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis…/treatment.ph…
…https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis-jia/treatment.phpJuvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treatment. There is no cure for JIA but with prompt diagnosis and early aggressive treatment, remission is possible. The goal of treatment is to relieve inflammation, control pain and improve quality of life. With early aggressive treatment, however, remission is possible.Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treatment – Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis…/treatment.ph…Search for: Is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis curable?
Does juvenile arthritis shorten life span?
RA Life Expectancy: Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Life Span …https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/prognosis/life-expectancy/
Studies have found an association between RA and a shortened lifespan. This is different than saying that RA itself causes a premature death. … In general, patients can expect that the rheumatoid arthritis life expectancy could be shortened by roughly 10 years to as many as 15 years.Oct 27, 2018 RA Life Expectancy: Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Life Span …https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/prognosis/life-expectancy/Search for: Does juvenile arthritis shorten life span?
Is Juvenile Arthritis serious?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic…/syc-20374082
…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20374082Some types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis can cause serious complications, such as growth problems, joint damage and eye inflammation.Dec 20, 2017Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic…/syc-20374082Search for: Is Juvenile Arthritis serious?
Do kids outgrow juvenile arthritis?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis – Stanford Children’s Health…https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis…
…https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis-90-P01722Unlike adult rheumatoid arthritis, which is chronic and lasts a lifetime, children often outgrow juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. However, the disease can affect bone development in the growing child.Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis – Stanford Children’s Health…https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis…Search for: Do kids outgrow juvenile arthritis?
How do you treat juvenile arthritis naturally?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic…/drc-20374088
…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374088The medications used to help children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis are chosen to decrease pain, improve function and minimize potential joint damage….Typical medications include:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). … Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). … Biologic agents. … Corticosteroids. Dec 20, 2017 Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/juvenile-idiopathic…/drc-20374088Search for: How do you treat juvenile arthritis naturally?
Is Juvenile Arthritis life threatening?
Juvenile Arthritis Myths | Juvenile Arthritis | Arthritis Today Magazinewww.kidsgetarthritistoo.org/kids-and-teens/teens/about-ja/things-ja-is-not.php
…http://www.kidsgetarthritistoo.org/kids-and-teens/teens/about-ja/things-ja-is-not.phpThere are diseases that can be life-threatening. Arthritis is not one of them. The good news is it’s unlikely to shorten your life or make you age faster.Juvenile Arthritis Myths | Juvenile Arthritis | Arthritis Today Magazinewww.kidsgetarthritistoo.org/kids-and-teens/teens/about-ja/things-ja-is-not.phpSearch for: Is Juvenile Arthritis life threatening?
Can you die from juvenile arthritis?
THU0523 Mortality and causes of death among juvenile idiopathic …https://ard.bmj.com/content/76/Suppl_2/404.1
…https://ard.bmj.com/content/76/Suppl_2/404.1Accidents were the most common (54%) cause of death in the patients with JIA, but suicide (39%) in the controls. … Conclusions Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is not associated with a higher mortality rate in children and young adults. References. Ravelli et al. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis.THU0523 Mortality and causes of death among juvenile idiopathic …https://ard.bmj.com/content/76/Suppl_2/404.1Search for: Can you die from juvenile arthritis?
Is Juvenile Arthritis common?
Juvenile Arthritis – Types and Treatments – OrthoInfo – AAOS…https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/juvenile-arthritis/
…https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/juvenile-arthritis/Juvenile arthritis is a long-lasting, chronic disease. It is the most common form of arthritis in children. In the United States, it affects nearly 300,000 children under the age of 18 years. … This is why the term “juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)” is no longer widely used.Juvenile Arthritis – Types and Treatments – OrthoInfo – AAOS…https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/juvenile-arthritis/Search for: Is Juvenile Arthritis common
Is Juvenile Arthritis rare?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) Basics: RA In Children – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid…/understanding-juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis-basi…
….https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/understanding-juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis-basicsJRA may cause fever and anemia, and can also affect the heart, lungs, eyes, and nervous system. … Permanent damage from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is now rare, and most affected children recover from the disease fully without experiencing any lasting disabilities.Jan 30, 2019Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) Basics: RA In Children – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid…/understanding-juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis-basi…Search for: Is Juvenile Arthritis rare?
Is juvenile arthritis a disability?
Is Juvenile Arthritis A Disability? | Can You Get Disability For Arthritis?…https://www.terrykatzandassociates.com/…/can-a-child-with-juvenile-arthritis-get-disabili…
…https://www.terrykatzandassociates.com/blog/can-a-child-with-juvenile-arthritis-get-disability-benefits/This makes them ineligible for SSDI. But because Supplemental Security Income does not require a work history, children who have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis may be eligible for these benefits. … Even though SSA acknowledges juvenile arthritis as a disability, a person still needs to apply for benefits.Mar 13, 2015 Is Juvenile Arthritis A Disability? | Can You Get Disability For Arthritis?…https://www.terrykatzandassociates.com/…/can-a-child-with-juvenile-arthritis-get-disabili…Search for: Is juvenile arthritis a disability?
Is juvenile arthritis hereditary?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Genetics Home Reference – NIH…https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis
…https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritisJuvenile idiopathic arthritis is thought to arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The term “idiopathic” indicates that the specific cause of the disorder is unknown. Its signs and symptoms result from excessive inflammation in and around the joints.Mar 19, 2019 Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – Genetics Home Reference – NIH…https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritisSearch for: Is juvenile arthritis hereditary?
Is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis the same as rheumatoid arthritis?
What are some differences between juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)…https://www.webmd.com/…/what-are-some-differences-between-juvenile-rheumatoid-art…
….https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/qa/what-are-some-differences-between-juvenile-rheumatoid-arthritis-jra-and-adult-arthritisThe main difference between juvenile and adult arthritis is that some children with JRA outgrow the illness, while adults usually have lifelong symptoms. … Additionally, unlike adult rheumatoid arthritis, JRA may affect bone development as well as the child’s growth.What are some differences between juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)…https://www.webmd.com/…/what-are-some-differences-between-juvenile-rheumatoid-art…Search for: Is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis the same as rheumatoid arthritis?
Does rheumatoid arthritis shorten your life?
How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Shorten Lifespan? – Verywell Health…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-does-rheumatoid-arthritis-shorten-lifespan-4178218
…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-does-rheumatoid-arthritis-shorten-lifespan-4178218Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) usually is not fatal, but complications of the disease can shorten a person’s lifespan. No one knows for sure how their lifespan with RA will be affected, so it is important to be aware of what affects life expectancy, including disease progression, lifestyle, and treatment failure or success.How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Shorten Lifespan? – Verywell Health…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-does-rheumatoid-arthritis-shorten-lifespan-4178218Search for: Does rheumatoid arthritis shorten your life?
What foods should be avoided with rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: Inflammation-Fighting Foods – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-foods
…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-foodsFoods to Eat With RAFoods to Eat With RA. Beans. … Fish. Salmon, herring, sardines, and anchovies are great sources of omega-3s. … Soy. It’s a source of omega-3 fatty acids that doesn’t taste fishy. … Foods to Avoid With RA. Red Meat and Dairy.Apr 3, 2018 Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet: Inflammation-Fighting Foods – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-foodsSearch for: What foods should be avoided with rheumatoid arthritis?
What happens if you leave rheumatoid arthritis untreated?
The Risks of Untreated Rheumatoid Arthritis | Everyday Health…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment…/untreated-ra-risks/
…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment-management/untreated-ra-risks/If left untreated, RA can cause a number of short-term complications, particularly joint pain, Pisetsky says. And because RA affects the entire body, without treatment you may also experience general malaise, fever, and fatigue. Untreated RA can also increase the risk for infection, Pisetsky says.Oct 23, 2017 The Risks of Untreated Rheumatoid Arthritis | Everyday Health…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment…/untreated-ra-risks/Search for: What happens if you leave rheumatoid arthritis untreated?
Juvenile Arthritis What It Is and Treatment Options
