Many people don’t realize that arthritis isn’t just an “old people’s problem.” In fact, according to Stanford Medicine, approximately 300,000 children and adolescents in the United States have been diagnosed with arthritis or other rheumatic conditions. Juvenile arthritis is most common in kids between the ages of 2 and 5. Unfortunately, arthritis in children is a bigger problem than we’d like to believe.
What Is Juvenile Arthritis?
Juvenile arthritis is an umbrella term for several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that develop in children under the age of 16. So, basically, juvenile arthritis is an autoimmune disease that’s not caused by wear-and-tear, unlike many arthritis conditions that are common in older age. It’s considered “invisible” mainly due to its fluctuating symptoms. More about the symptoms in a moment. But first, let’s go over the different juvenile arthritis types in Western Pennsylvania and around the world.
What Are the Juvenile Arthritis Types?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common. It includes six different types.
• Oligoarthritis
Oligoarthritis is most common among younger children. It usually affects up to four joints in the first six months. It often involves large joints (knees, ankles).
• Polyarthritis
Polyarthritis affects five or more joints. It typically develops between the ages of 1 and 12. It affects larger joints (hips, knees, ankles). It can also affect smaller joints (fingers, toes) as well. And it can affect both sides of the body symmetrically.
• Systemic
Systemic juvenile arthritis can affect the joints and other body systems (skin, internal organs). It’s typically accompanied by a fever, rash, and fatigue. And it is equally likely to affect boys and girls.
• Enthesitis-related
Enthesitis-related arthritis is more common in older children and teenagers. It usually affects the points where the tendons attach to the bones (heels, knees, hips).
• Juvenile psoriatic arthritis
Juvenile psoriatic arthritis is usually accompanied by both joint inflammation and a skin condition (psoriasis). It’s a relatively rare subtype of juvenile arthritis. It’s only seen in a few cases.
• Undifferentiated
Undifferentiated juvenile arthritis is when a child’s arthritis symptoms don’t fit into any of the other established classifications. Or, when they fit into multiple categories. It’s when the child’s arthritis doesn’t have a clear, singular diagnosis.
Juvenile Polyarticular Idiopathic Arthritis
There are other types of juvenile arthritis as well. For example, juvenile polyarticular idiopathic arthritis. It’s a specific type of juvenile arthritis. It is defined by the involvement of five or more joints within the first six months of the disease.
What Are the Pediatric Arthritis Symptoms and Teenage Arthritis Symptoms? Is There a Difference?
The symptoms of arthritis in both pediatric and teenage arthritis share common symptoms. However, there are some differences in how they manifest and at what age.
Similarities:
- Joint pain, swelling, stiffness
- Chronic fatigue, tiredness
- Eye inflammation
- Fever
- Unexplained skin rashes
- Swollen lymph nodes
Differences:
The onset age for juvenile arthritis is before the age of 16 (but it can affect younger children too). However, certain types of juvenile arthritis (like enthesitis-related arthritis) are more likely to appear in older children and teenagers.
Other Symptoms to Watch Out For
- Swollen or warm joints
- Limping (especially in the morning)
- Joint stiffness (after naps or rest)
- Irritability
- Reluctance to play
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
If your child is showing any of the above symptoms or a combination of symptoms, talk with your pediatrician. The pediatrician might refer you to a rheumatologist who specializes in diagnosing autoimmune conditions like juvenile arthritis.
How Is Juvenile Arthritis Diagnosed?
A juvenile arthritis diagnosis typically involves the following.
- Physical exam
- Blood tests (ESR, CRP, ANA)
- Imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs)
Your child might also be screened for eye involvement (which can occur silently in some types of juvenile arthritis).
The pharmacists at Klingensmith’s Drug Stores are trained to spot red flags and can help guide you toward trusted juvenile arthritis specialists in Western Pennsylvania if needed.
What Are the Treatment Options for Juvenile Arthritis?
Treatment for juvenile arthritis varies depending on the type and severity. But it usually includes a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and support devices.
Medications (children’s pain relievers) include:
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen (to reduce inflammation)
- DMARDs, antirheumatic drugs (to slow progression)
- Biologics (for children with more severe symptoms)
- Topical pain gels (for pain relief)
Supportive Care:
- Physical therapy (to maintain mobility)
- Occupational therapy (for daily tasks)
- Nutritional support
- Self-care (healthy eating, hot and cold therapies, mind-body therapies, massage and acupuncture, supplements, stress and emotional strategies)
Klingensmith’s carries a variety of arthritis pain relief for kids. Just ask the pharmacist for assistance if you need help choosing the best possible product for your child’s needs.
Tips for Managing Daily Life with Juvenile Arthritis
Living with juvenile arthritis can affect more than just your child’s joints. Therefore, your child must adapt.
Here’s how you can help them.
- Build a morning routine with time for gentle stretching.
- Communicate with your child’s teachers about their condition.
- Track their symptoms and flare patterns.
- Keep comfort items (braces, heating pad, etc.) on hand.
How to Support Your Child Emotionally and Socially
Any chronic illness can be isolating. They can make a child feel “different.” It can also make them feel frustrated (due to their limits). That means your child will need extra emotional and social support.
Encourage them to talk about their feelings. Empower them to advocate for themselves at school, in sports, or in any other activities or social scenarios they find themselves in. It’s also important to get them involved with local or online juvenile arthritis support communities. Connect them with other children who are like them. Children who are dealing with the same physical and emotional struggles as they are.
When to Revisit Juvenile Arthritis Treatment Plans
As children grow, their symptoms, triggers, and medication needs might change. Regular check-ups with a pediatric rheumatologist are important to reassess and adjust your child’s treatment.
If your child experiences more frequent flares, side effects, or new symptoms, reach out to your child’s doctor for guidance on how to manage their evolving care.
Klingensmith’s Commitment to Your Child’s Health
At Klingensmith’s Drug Stores, we understand how important it is to care for the whole child. Not just their diagnosis. Our local pharmacists are trained to:
- Recommend the best arthritis pain relief for kids.
- Answer your medication questions.
- Provide autoimmune support strategies and supplies.
- Direct you to specialists if needed.
We’re more than a pharmacy. We’re part of your Western Pennsylvania community!
Visit Your Local Klingensmith’s Drug Store Today!
We’re here to help you find the right arthritis pain relief for your kids. And, if you have specific needs, we’ll direct you to a specialist. Visit one of your local Klingensmith’s Drug Stores today to pick up essential arthritis products and any of your other autoimmune support pharmacy needs.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pediatrician regarding all medical issues or conditions pertaining to your child. Or before making any decisions related to your child’s health or treatment plan.
