Dr Himanshi Chaudhary, Consultant clinical Immunology and paediatric rheumatology at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune talks about the debilitating condition.
What is Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), also known as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting children under the age of 16. While its prevalence globally stands at approximately 1 in 1,000 children, identifying and managing JRA poses significant challenges.
What are the hurdles in recognising the condition?
The challenges in recognition arise from vague and non-specific symptoms: JRA often manifests with symptoms such as joint inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling. However, these symptoms can be non-specific and easily attributed to normal childhood activities or growing pains. Children may struggle to articulate their discomfort, leading to delays in diagnosis. Disease variability is another challenge with JRA presenting differently in each child, with various subsets and types like oligoarticular JIA, polyarticular JIA, and systemic JIA. This variability complicates recognition, as symptoms and patterns of joint involvement differ, making it challenging for healthcare professionals and parents to distinguish JRA from other childhood ailments or injuries. Many physicians, especially in primary care settings, may lack familiarity with JRA symptoms, leading to diagnostic delays and unnecessary investigations. Moreover, the scarcity of paediatric rheumatologists further exacerbates the issue.
What measures can be taken for early Identification and addressing the condition?
Consistent medical check-ups are essential for monitoring a child's growth and development. Parents should ensure regular visits to paediatricians and promptly communicate any concerns or recurring symptoms, no matter how trivial they may seem. Maintaining a symptom journal by keeping a detailed account of the child's symptoms, including the duration and frequency of joint pain or swelling, can aid healthcare professionals in accurate diagnosis and monitoring disease progression.
What is the role of lifestyle in JRA?
While lifestyle choices do not cause JRA, promoting a healthy lifestyle can help minimise its impact. Encouraging regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to overall well-being and potentially reduce the severity of symptoms.