Informational Blog About Rheumatoid Arthritis and How To Beat RA With Natural Treatments

Juvenile arthritis affects almost 300,000 children in the United States, and 50,000 children are inflicted by rheumatoid arthritis… the most prevalent form of child arthritis. There is a possibility your child’s joint pain is a sign of developing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is classified by the American College of Rheumatology, as less than 16 years of age and symptoms lasting more than 6 weeks.

Numerous Rheumatologists have recognized that the severity of JRA is determined by the number of joints involved, and the greater the number associated, reduces the chance of symptoms going into total remission.

Approximately 75% of rheumatoid arthritis children enter extended periods of remission with few or no disabilities. A number of children may later develop adult rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and has distinct differences versus adult rheumatoid arthritis. There are three subgroups of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Polyarticular JRA involves 5 or more joints and closely resembles adult rheumatoid arthritis. Usually 30% – 40% of children with JRA are affected by this type, girls being twice as likely as boys. Joints are affected symmetrically (both sides) and may encompass joints of small bones, such as the hands. Weight bearing joints of the hips, knees, ankles and feet are also affected. Symptoms associated with this form of arthritis are joint pain and swelling, low grade fever, weight loss and nodules that appear on the skin. The majority of children inflicted with polyarticular JRA  test negative for rheumatoid factor and the prognosis is usually favorable.
2. Pauciarticular JRA affect 4 or fewer joints and usually include the knees, wrists, ankles, and elbows. Pauciarticular arthritis is the most prevalent form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and about 50% of children are affected by this type. Affected joints manifest asymmetrically (one at a time), and girls are mostly inflicted. Inflammation of the eyes is a predominant symptom associated with pauciarticular JRA. Children usually test positive for antinuclear antibody (ANA) and generally have a positive outcome.
3. Systemic JRA is the least common and only about 10% of children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis develop this form. Systemic JRA affect girls and boys equally and may involve internal organs. Fevers are beginning signs of systemic JRA, along with skin rash. Other signs and symptoms include:

• Inflammation of the heart and adjacent tissues
• Enlargement of the lymph nodes and spleen
• Increased white cell count
• Anemia
• Weight loss
• Fatigue

A child with Systemic JRA may test negative for rheumatoid factor and antinuclear antibodies. 75% of children who develop this form have a favorable outcome.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis involves a series of x-rays and blood samples. There are no specific pediatric tests to diagnose JRA. At the first onset of symptoms, you should seek medical consultation with your child’s doctor. A referral to see a Pediatric Rheumatologist for further evaluation will be ordered if necessary.

Tests are conducted to rule out diseases that may cause similar symptoms as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, such as congenital abnormalities, infections, or childhood cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Your child’s joint pain can be confused with growing pains. Growing pains typically occurs in children between the ages of 3 to 12 years. Pain usually appear late evening or at night. Growing pains are mostly felt in the thighs, calves… shins… or behind the knees; but never in the joints.

Symptoms of JRA vary in each child and may include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Painful joints and swelling
• Morning stiffness
• Rash

Children may not complain of pain unless it interferes with normal daily activities.

Treatment of Juvenile RA

Treatment of JRA is comparable to adult treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Children may be given aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Penicillamine or gold therapy is sometimes administered to children if NSAIDS are not effective. Steroids are not ordinarily given to children, due to daily usage creating the possibility of stunted growth or growth retardation, unless the disease has severely progressed.

Exercise is incorporated as a daily routine for proper treatment of JRA. Children need plenty of rest, and the use of a night splint helps to reduce any potential deformity.

Your child’s joint pain should be attended to and not overlooked. It is best to have your child seen by a doctor if symptoms persist for an extended period of time.

Wishing you an enjoyable and pain free life!

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