When you hear the word “arthritis,” the image of a child may not be the first that springs to mind. But in fact, more than 300,000 kids live with juvenile arthritis in the United States, according to the Arthritis Foundation. That’s one out of every 250 children.
The term “juvenile arthritis,” which is also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, applies to a whole host of different health conditions that can cause inflammation and may impact the joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, bones and other parts of the body. Juvenile arthritis can be especially challenging for kids, because of limitations brought about by intermittent pain, swelling and stiffness. It can make it difficult to run and play and have fun with friends, and that can take a toll on a child’s self-esteem, mood and social development.
July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to learn about these health conditions, what they might look like and what you can do to help your child.
How does arthritis impact kids?
Most types of juvenile arthritis are autoimmune conditions, which means the immune system attacks healthy areas of the body, rather than fighting off viruses and bacteria, like it’s supposed to. That can result in pain and swelling in joints and tendons, and, in some types of arthritis, it can cause inflammation and pain in the skin and different organs, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is the most common kind of arthritis in kids, and the term refers to a number of different conditions, which could occur briefly, or last throughout life. Some examples include psoriatic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which affects the skin; systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which can impact the entire body; oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which affects four or fewer joints; and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which affects five or more joints.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases says that “With treatment, most children achieve periods of wellness (remission), and sometimes the disease goes away permanently with no further need for medications.” However, it’s important to talk with a health care provider so that your child can be diagnosed quickly and treatment can begin early.
What are symptoms of juvenile arthritis?
It can be difficult to diagnose juvenile arthritis, because symptoms can overlap with other conditions. Plus, many kids will experience symptoms off and on with juvenile arthritis, as the condition flares and then goes into remission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says to look out for the following symptoms, and speak with a doctor if your child is experiencing them:
- Pain in the joints
- Swelling
- Fever
- Stiffness
- A rash
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Eye inflammation
- Difficulty with day-to-day activities, including dressing, playing and walking
What can you do if your child has arthritis?
Your child’s doctor may refer you to a pediatric rheumatologist, who can help connect you to the right treatment. That could be medication, physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery.
In addition to working closely with your health care providers, there are lifestyle commitments you can make at home that may help. The Mayo Clinic says that kids with arthritis will benefit from regular exercise, which can help strengthen muscles and increase flexibility in joints (swimming might be a good choice, because water reduces the impact of repeated movements on joints). In addition, eating a healthy diet can help your child feel stronger and more energized. And cold packs and/or heat packs may help your child to feel better before and after activities, or even when they wake up.
As parents, you want to help your child be their best and feel their best. When they have pediatric arthritis, you may need a few extra tools in your toolkit to learn how to do that. Finding a support group and peers can make a difference, for you, as well as your child. The Arthritis Foundation is a good place to start. The organization offers information on support for parents, as well as camps for kids, school navigation tips, educational resources, personal stories and so much more. In addition, your health care provider may be able to share information about local groups and resources that could help you as you and your family, as you learn to navigate life with juvenile arthritis.
