1. JRA is Too Common
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, also known as JRA, is a chronic disease and is also the most common type of arthritis in children. There are 250,000 children under sixteen suffering with this disease. Children are often diagnosed with this disease after suffering from swollen and painful joints for six weeks or more. There is no known cause for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, neither is there a cure. However, there is ongoing, extensive research to find treatments and a cure.
2. Symptoms Vary From Day to Day
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis can come in several different forms and affect children differently. Children can even suffer growth problems as a result of JRA. Some children are lucky enough to outgrow it, while others continue to suffer into their adult life. Children with JRA can suffer severe debilitating pain and swollen joints, and some children even suffer with their internal organs. Each case is handled on an individual basis, because signs of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis can vary from child to child. Children with JRA can also experience different symptoms from day to day.
3. More Than One Test for a Diagnosis
There is no one test of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Your primary health care provider will take an extensive medical history and perform several blood tests, such as a CBC, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factor test, antinuclear antibody test, and a blood culture. In some cases, doctors may order X-rays, a bone scan and a bone marrow examination. Your doctor uses these results to diagnose Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Other tests may also be performed in order to rule out any other diseases.
4. Types and Symptoms of JRA
There are three types of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. The type is determined by the symptoms the child exhibits during the first six months after onset of the disease. Pauciarticular is when four or fewer joints are affected, the most common being the knee and wrist joints. Polyarticular arthritis affects five or more joints. It affects more girls than boys and often affects weight bearing joints, such as hips, knees and ankles. Systemic Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis affects most of the joints in the body. The child displays swollen and painful joints, but may also experience high fevers, especially in the evenings. A rash may also suddenly appear and disappear.
5. Treatment Options
There are different types of treatments. Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen work on painful swelling. Your health care provider can recommend prescription medication, as needed. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, tumor necrosis factor blockers and corticosteroids may be prescribed when stronger pain management is needed. Your health care provider may also recommend physical therapy. Physical exercise helps with range of motion, mobility and muscle tone. Work with your caregiver to find the best treatment option.
