Kawasaki disease is primarily a childhood disease that is also known as Kawasaki syndrome or mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, according to the American Heart Association. Over four thousand Americans are affected each year, and 80 percent of all patients with Kawasaki are less than five years old. Less than one percent of Kawasaki patients die from the disease. Kawasaki's disease is characterized by inflammation of small and medium-sized arteries. This inflammation is what causes the symptoms of the disease.
Fever
One of the first signs of Kawasaki disease is a fever, according to the Mayo Clinic. The fever is usually higher than 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit, or 38.5 degrees Celsius. Patients often have the fever for one to two weeks. The fever usually does not respond to treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Kawasaki disease often affects the lymph nodes. This is due to the disease affecting the arteries in the lymph nodes. Patients often develop swollen lymph nodes, according to MedlinePlus. Frequently, Kawasaki syndrome causes swelling in only one lymph node. Lymph nodes in the neck are particularly prone to swelling from Kawasaki disease.
Swollen Tongue
Patients with Kawasaki disease can develop an enlarged tongue, according to the Mayo Clinic. The tongue also becomes bright red as it swells and may also present with a white film. This tongue lesion is sometimes descried as strawberry tongue. Patients who are experiencing this symptom as well as a fever that has lasted more than four days should be brought in for medical examination.
Irritation of the Oral Cavity
Kawasaki syndrome has been known to cause irritation of the tissue in the oral cavity, as reported by the American Heart Association. Patients may exhibit irritation or inflammation of the lips, mouth and throat. This symptom accompanied by a high fever that lasts for more than four days should prompt the patient so seek a physician's assistance.
Reddening of the Skin and Eyes
Patients with Kawasaki syndrome can develop a reddening of both eyes and the palms and soles of the feet, as stated by the Mayo Clinic. The redness may be associated with irritation of the eyes. In the palms and soles, the redness is not associated with any pain but can be linked with unexplained swelling. Leaking from the inflamed arteries seen in Kawasaki disease causes the swelling. This sign along with the typical fever associated with Kawasaki disease indicates the need for medical attention.
