A rash and fever as symptoms of juvenile arthritis?

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.