Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is a form of arthritis that mainly affects children. It is also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Joint inflammation and stiffness are major rheumatology symptoms. For at least 6 weeks, this type of arthritis attacks multiple joints in children aged 16 or less. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis that affects adults, JIA is usually outgrown by youngsters. However, in a growing child, the condition might damage bone formation.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis come in several forms, including systemic onset JIA, oligoarticular JIA, polyarticular JIA, psoriatic arthritis, and enthesitis-related JIA.
Causes Of JIA
JIA is an autoimmune illness, much like adult rheumatoid arthritis. This means that your body’s immune system assaults the body’s own functioning cells and tissues. Several factors contribute to JIA. Genetic and environmental factors are two examples. This suggests that the disease may run in families and be triggered by specific factors. JIA is connected to a section of the HLA antigen DR4 gene. This antigen may make a person more susceptible to the disease.
JIA Symptoms
Symptoms of JIA can arise at any time throughout a flare-up. This could also be continuing (chronic). Symptoms differ from child to child. Inflamed, stiff, and severely painful joints, usually in the morning or after a night’s sleep, inflammation in the eye, redness in a joint, decreased mobility, fatigue, loss of appetite, poor weight gain, and slow growth rate, swollen lymph nodes, and other symptoms may be present. These symptoms and signs can be mistaken for those of other disorders. Make a doctor’s appointment for your kid to receive a diagnosis.
Treatment Of JIA
The aim of rheumatology treatment is to relieve pain and stiffness while allowing your kid to maintain a regular lifestyle. The treatment for your child will be based on their symptoms, age, and general wellbeing. The intensity of the illness will also play a role. NSAIDs, DMARDs, Corticosteroid drugs, biologics, and other medications may be used in the treatment.
Discuss the risks, benefits, and potential adverse effects of any medications with your child’s healthcare professional. Physical therapy, proper rest, nutritional counseling, etc. are some other ways you can manage juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
What Are The Risks Associated With JIA?
Almost 50 % of the children with JIA make a full recovery. Others may experience symptoms for many years. Some people will get rashes and fever. Others may get arthritis that worsens with time. Slow development and weakening bones are two common issues. There may be issues with the heart, kidneys, or endocrine system in rare circumstances.
