As I read an article in Arthritis
Today, July-Aug. 2013, about a mother’s anxiety over her child’s high
fever, rash, and pain I could relate to the agony of waiting for a diagnosis. One can wait only so long before seeking another opinion or pushing harder for more attention to the issue causing a child's pain.
I read more about how her daughter was finally diagnosed with systemic idiopathic arthritis after mom decided going “somewhere else” was necessary. A new hospital where
she saw a pediatric rheumatologist made all the difference.
The 6 year old's symptoms included a rash, high fever, and pain, but not
joint pain. According to the Boston Children’s Hospital the symptoms of joint
pain with JIA may not show up for months, which may explain why physicians may
have a hard time diagnosing the condition. The disease may affect small joints
of the hands, wrists, knees, and ankles. It also has potential to damage vital
organs, so early diagnosis and treatment is critical.
There are many types of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis as
described in this article. Finding information about symptoms, causes,
prevention, treatment, outlook, and more is important. Keep looking until you find the right physician. There are some very good online resources such as The Arthritis Foundation.
If you know of a child who has juvenile arthritis, the gift
of a Maine Warmers microwave heating pad in the shape of a bunny might help bring some
comforting companionship and a smile. The parents might enjoy some relaxation and relief of tense muscles that a back warmer or neck warmer offers.
