Other than July being the month of our Kenyan winter – we even have icy roads to show for it now – it is juvenile arthritis awareness month. Like most of you, I just recently became aware of this – the juvenile arthritis part that is. If you are as curious as I am you are probably asking, “What is that?
Juvenile arthritis – also known as pediatric rheumatic disease – is an autoimmune disease which is marked by swelling of the synovium; (the tissue that lines the inside of joints), accompanied by redness, heat, and pain affecting children aged 16 years and younger.
Unfortunately, there is no known evidence that suggests toxins, foods or allergens cause children to develop juvenile arthritis. And there is currently no cure for juvenile arthritis. With all this negativity, there is some light at the end of the tunnel with early diagnosis. Aggressive treatment making remission a possibility. The goal of treatment is to relieve swelling, control pain and improve the child’s quality of life which generally includes; a combination of medication, physical activity, eye care and nutritional therapy.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease parents and care takers of a child with juvenile arthritis are asked to do the following:
•Get the best care possible.
•Learn as much as you can about your child’s disease and its treatment.
•Treat your child as normally as possible.
•Encourage exercise and physical therapy for your child.
•Talk with your child.
If this touches you, or you know of anyone that has had a brush with juvenile arthritis, or maybe you are just curious, get in touch with us or visit us.
Stay well and keep others informed.
