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Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, also known as JIA, is an autoimmune disease that mainly affects children and adolescents. This disease can significantly affect the quality of life of patients and requires appropriate diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. In this article, we will take a closer look at JIA, its different types, causes, symptoms and available treatment and rehabilitation methods.
Jia – what is it?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or JIA, is an autoimmune rheumatic disease. It is a disease that mainly affects children and adolescents, usually before the age of 16. JIA is characterized by chronic inflammation in the joints, which can lead to cartilage and bone damage.
Jia – types of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
There are several different types of JIA, which differ in the number and type of joints involved and the course of the disease. The most common types of JIA are:
- Oligoarticular JIA – affects less than five joints.
- Polyarticular JIA – affects five or more joints.
- JIA with dermatitis – characterized by additional inflammation of the skin.
- JIA associated with inflammation of the synovium and lymph nodes – there is inflammation of the synovium of the joints and enlargement of the lymph nodes.
Jia – causes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
The causes of JIA are not yet fully understood. However, it is known that it is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissues. Genetic factors, infections and environmental factors may play a role in the development of this disease.
Jia – symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Symptoms of JIA can vary and include:
- Arthralgia
- Limited joint mobility
- Joint swelling
- High body temperature
- Skin inflammation
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
Symptoms of JIA may be mild or severe, and their severity may vary depending on the type of disease and its course.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis – diagnosis
The diagnosis of JIA is based on clinical, imaging and laboratory tests. The rheumatologist conducts a detailed interview, examines the patient’s joints and orders appropriate blood and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging or X-rays, which help confirm the presence of arthritis.
Jia – treatment
Treatment of JIA aims to control inflammation, relieve pain symptoms and prevent joint damage. The main methods of treating JIA are:
- Use of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Regular check-ups with a rheumatologist
Jia – rehabilitation
Rehabilitation plays a key role in the treatment of JIA. A rehabilitation specialist helps the patient maintain joint mobility, strengthen muscles and relieve pain. Physical exercise and occupational therapy are important elements of the rehabilitation of patients with JIA.
Your suggestions
If JIA is suspected or symptoms related to arthritis appear in a child, it is always worth consulting a rheumatologist. Diagnosis and early treatment are crucial to ensuring the best possible quality of life for patients with JIA.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about JIA, read our other articles on the subject and consult regularly with a specialist to monitor the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.