July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, which is dedicated to spreading the awareness about juvenile arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, juvenile arthritis (JA) is not a disease in itself. It’s also used to describe autoimmune and inflammatory conditions or pediatric rheumatic diseases that can develop in children under the age of 16. It is estimated that juvenile arthritis affects nearly 300,0000 children in the United States.
Juvenile Arthritis Symptoms
Juvenile Arthritis has common symptoms, but there are additional symptoms associated with its various types. It’s essential to receive an accurate diagnosis in order to begin proper treatment. A thorough physical exam and a complete medical history are important elements of an accurate diagnosis. A doctor may implement tests, based upon the type of juvenile arthritis that is suspected.
The most common symptoms recognized by the Arthritis Foundation are:
- Pain in the jaw joints, hands, neck, knees, feet, or neck that is present right after a child wakes up in the morning or after a nap. Pain in the joints or muscles after a long day of strenuous activity.
- Stiffness in joints during the morning (usually a sign of inflammation).
- Swelling or redness on the skin around painful joints that affect a child’s hands, knees, and feet.
- Frequent fevers accompanied by discomfort or fatigue that may appear suddenly, at the same time of day, and disappear after a short time.
- Rashes that are faint and pink, and develop over knuckles, across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, or on the trunk or arms.
- Weight loss associated with fatigue and lack of appetite.
- Eye problems such persistent eye redness, pain or blurred vision.
Juvenile Arthritis Treatment, Self-Care
There is no cure for juvenile arthritis, but remission is possible with early diagnosis and proper treatment. A combination of medication, physical activity, eye care, and healthy eating comprises most treatment plans. It’s highly recommended to teach the child the importance of following the treatment prescribed by the healthcare team and helping the child address the emotional and social effects of the disease. Carmichael’s also offers a selection of products that aid in the relief of arthritis pain.