Kids Get Arthritis, Too!
- Elizabeth Bell
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Arthritis is something only grandparents get, right? Wrong. Kids get arthritis, too!
Overview of Juvenile Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints of the body. Juvenile arthritis is a catch-all term for all joint conditions affecting children. The most common type is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Idiopathic means researchers do not know the cause of the disease.
JIA is an autoimmune disease. The body's immune system prevents illness by attacking bacteria and viruses. Sometimes the immune system is triggered in a way that causes it to attack the body's healthy cells or tissues which causes inflammation.
JIA is a chronic condition affecting 1 of every 1,000 children under the age of 16 years. There are six sub types of JIA, each with their own characteristics. Girls are diagnosed with JIA forms more frequently, but children of any gender, race, or ethnic backgrounds can be affected.
Symptoms of Juvenile Arthritis
Symptoms of JIA vary by child and by type, but they all have similarities. These symptoms may include:
Joint pain, swelling, or warmth
Joint stiffness which is worse in the mornings or after sitting for long periods
Limping
Difficulty moving or refusal to use a limb (arm, leg, finger)
Fatigue
Fever
Rash, bumps, nodules, red patches on skin
Blurry vision, eye redness or pain
Growth problems
Diagnosis of Juvenile Arthritis
If joint symptoms have persisted for 6 weeks or more, then a pediatrician should consider Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) as a possibility. A referral to a rheumatologist should be made to ensure proper diagnosis. Many times, diagnosis is made after ruling out other diseases because there is not just one single test for JIA. Doctors may use medical history, physical exam, lab tests, and imaging studies to make a diagnosis.
Treatment of Juvenile Arthritis
Treatment plans vary and depend on many factors, but they all have similar goals. All treatments aim to slow down or stop inflammation, relieve pain, prevent any further damage to joints, maintain joint mobility, and ultimately, achieve remission. Rheumatologists will decide which treatment will best benefit the child.
Treatment plans may include any or all of the following:
Medication - There are many options that can be prescribed. Anti-inflammatory medications will help relieve pain and swelling. Corticosteroids may be used for fast relief in a painful joint. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) suppress the immune system's attacks on joints. Biological response modifiers block signals in the immune system to prevent inflammation.
Physical or occupational therapy - This helps to decrease pain, increase mobility, strengthen muscles, and protect joints during activity.
Ophthalmology visits - Regular eye appointments are needed to monitor for eye inflammation.
Special Considerations
Living with a chronic illness can be difficult for anyone, especially children. There are ways to help a child with JIA overcome challenges and cope with their condition. These include:
Learn about the disease, treatments, and side effects and talk openly with the child about these things in an age appropriate way.
Keep track of symptoms and side effects to share with the doctor. This will ensure an effective treatment plan.
Give the child an active role in their medical care. This role will change as the child grows and understands more about JIA.
Find a balance of activity and rest. Being active in sports or extracurricular and social activities is a good thing, but the child may need more frequent rest periods.
Talk with the child's school to let them know about any accommodations that might be needed.
Encourage the child to tell an adult if they are feeling anxious, stressed, or sad. Having a counselor or support group can be helpful when dealing with chronic illness.
References
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
