Systemic Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA)

The first things to consider when dealing with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are the basic symptoms that precede the disease. Juvenile arthritis symptoms can be vague, like spiking fever, unexplainable rashes, swollen knuckles, limping, a sore wrist, finger or knee.

In addition, signs may also include, but are not limited to, morning stiffness, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. For many, these signs do not seem like an issue to fret over, but in reality, juvenile arthritis is possible a life-long disease, and if not treated aggressively, it can pester children for ten years or more, undiagnosed, yet not going unnoticed when it comes to the impact on the child’s quality of life.

If these symptoms continue, it is best to see a healthcare provider or a local physician for more information. Juvenile arthritis affects children under the age of sixteen, and a child living with arthritis at such a young age, may become emotionally distressed or socially incompetent.

It is likely for patients to complain about stiff joint, acnes, and pains. Some will also begin to shows signs of negative social interaction due to the lack of participation in the same activities as their friends, no late parties, no sports, etc. For a parent to deal with these heart-wrenching realities from a child is absolutely devastating.

Luckily, if diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and with early and aggressive treatment there is still hope for a bright future. It is possible for arthritis to last a lifetime, but for many, the arthritis comes, stays around for a couple weeks or months, and then goes away forever.

For those who desire a little ‘push’ to get arthritis on its way and out of a child’s life, they may seek special treatment. The most popular types of JRA treatment include special medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS.

These drugs include medications like Motrin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, and Advil– which are all used as a way to lessen swelling and relive pain. It is important for the child to participate in daily exercise and it is recommended for them to seek medical assistance through physical therapy and to, at a physician’s direction, follow the medication plan agreed on. On rare occasions, surgery is chosen as an option of treatment as well.

In general, it is a powerful disease. It affects school work, social life, family, relationships, dating, sports, and nearly every other event in a child’s life. This disease is commanding, but it does not have to control a child’s entire existence. With proper exercise, medications, and therapy, juvenile arthritis can be tolerated and children can live a long and happy life, no longer restricted by the dark overhead shadow of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

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