Rheumatoid Arthritis in Younger Individuals
James Bartell
Statistics prove that nearly 300,000 children in America have a form of arthritis. The most common form is Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, or JRA, and it affects nearly 50,000 children in the U.S.
The cause of JRA still remains unknown, but researchers think it is an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease causes the immune systems to attack itself, and when this happens, the body produces too much cytokines. This leads to inflammation in the body. Cytokines are chemical signals used for cell communication, and play an important role in immune system response.
Researchers believe the key to controlling, or slowing down the degeneration of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is to learn how to control cytokine production. Those involved in holistic healthcare practices believe the key to controlling cytokine production is connected to the diet.
Fruits that are high in vitamin C provide the most benefit for children with arthritis. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain phytochemicals, which are helpful in fighting inflammation. A few of these inflammation-fighting foods include: blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi fruit, mango, cantaloupe melon and apples.
Vegetables that are high in vitamin A (beta-carotene) and vitamin C are also helpful in fighting inflammation. These include: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, collard greens, kale, spinach, squash, and sweet potatoes.
It is also recommended to consume foods or dietary supplements rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These include certain types of fish including: herring, mackerel, salmon, sardines, and trout. It is recommended to limit fish consumption to 3-ounce portions, consumed twice a week, for children under age 16. Whenever possible, seek out mercury-free fish to avoid potential health problems associated with mercury.
Typically, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis appears between the ages of 6 months and 16 years. More often than not, the first signs of this disease appear as joint swelling and reddened or warm joints. There are three major types of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis:
1. Polyarticular arthritis -- Swelling in five or more joints, such as knees, hips, feet, ankles, and necks; bumps or nodules on body; low-grade fever. 2. Pauciarticular arthritis -- Swelling or pain in only four or fewer joints, and iris inflammation. 3. Systemic arthritis -- Swelling in entire body; high fever; joint pain, swelling, and stiffness; enlarged spleen and lymph nodes; sudden onset and disappearance of a rash.
An early and accurate diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis is needed in order to effectively manage the disease. It?s important to educate yourself and other family members about JRA symptoms and characteristics if your child is diagnosed. It?s possible for yoru child to maintain an active lifestyle, but if any of the previously stated symptoms arise, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will need to learn detailed medical history, take blood for testing, and do a physical examination before diagnosing Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis.
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