In fact, an estimated 300,000 children in America have some form of arthritis. There are more than 100 types of arthritis – the word arthritis simply means “swollen joint,” and joint symptoms are found in conditions ranging from wear-and-tear arthritis to lupus and Lyme disease.
Nationwide, some 47 million people have arthritis, and that number is expected to skyrocket as the Baby Boomers age. The three most common types among adults are osteoarthritis or “wear-and-tear” arthritis, in which the cartilage breaks down over time; rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition; and fibromyalgia, which also causes muscle pain and sleep disturbances.
Symptoms of Juvenile Arthritis
In children with juvenile arthritis, the most common form is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or JRA. Like the adult form of rheumatoid arthritis, the symptoms and severity of JRA can vary widely from child to child. The most common symptoms include pain and swelling, joint inflammation, joint stiffness, damage or changes to the joints, and contractures or permanent bending of a joint.
Other symptoms include morning stiffness and muscle weakness, fatigue, skin rash and fevers during acute flares, even internal organ damage; stunted growth; problems in school; difficulty playing sports; at risk for infections and other complications
Emotional Effects of Juvenile Arthritis
The pain, fatigue, stiffness and joint changes that severe juvenile arthritis can bring also can cause emotional problems for affected children and their families. Children who are unable to play sports or vigorous physical games may feel left out. They may feel isolated by their physical appearance, especially if they have a limp or stunted growth.
On occasion teachers and school administrators don’t understand the full impact of arthritis on a child, sometimes labeling the youngster as being lazy or trying to get out of class. It is very important for parents to work with their children’s teachers to explain the disease and discuss any accommodations the student might need in order to learn effectively.
The child’s rheumatologist or pediatrician may be able to give parents advice on dealing with some of the emotional issues, or he may recommend a family counselor. Parents may also be able to find youth or family camps and support groups in their area sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation or similar organizations. For example, the Arthritis Association of Louisiana holds a free annual summer retreat weekend for families with a child affected by JRA. The disease truly affects the entire family, as parents can experience guilt and exhaustion, while siblings who aren’t sick can sometimes resent the attention lavished on the affected child.
Eye Problems with Juvenile Arthritis
Several types of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis can lead to certain specific eye problems in affected children. These kids can develop a type of chronic eye inflammation called uveitis. Children who have a positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test, a type of blood test done by the rheumatologist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor), may have a higher risk of developing uveitis. There are no symptoms, so children with juvenile arthritis should be monitored by an eye doctor familiar with disease.
Can Juvenile Arthritis Be Prevented?
While there is no cure for arthritis, many forms can be prevented or treated to minimize their painful effects – especially when diagnosed early.
The autoimmune types of arthritis, such as JRA, are still some of the least understood – although researchers have learned much in the last decade. JRA is not yet preventable, but the symptoms are highly treatable, with new and better medications emerging almost every year.
Parents can, however, help prevent osteoarthritis or wear-and-tear arthritis that can develop after sports injuries and accidents. Get the injury looked at by a doctor, even if it seems minor. Work with the child to follow the doctor’s instructions concerning rest and any physical therapy. Last but not least, make sure the injury is fully healed before the child goes back to sports or vigorous exercise.
If a child complains of joint pain, shows signs of stiffness or swelling, has difficulty playing sports or has other symptoms of juvenile arthritis, the most important thing any parent should do is visit the child’s pediatrician. He or she should be able to advise whether the child should see a rheumatologist or other specialist. Early detection of arthritis is vital to preventing long-term joint damage and other complications of juvenile arthritis.
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