Rheumatism is an autoimmune disease that affects tendons and joints, and its negative effects may extend to include damage to other organs of the body. However, many believe that children are far from this chronic disease. In this context, Dalili Medical reviews the symptoms of rheumatism in children and its complications.

**What is pediatric rheumatism and what are its types?**

Pediatric rheumatism is a disease that is considered an autoimmune disease, where the body - incorrectly - attacks its healthy tissues. This disease can affect muscles, joints, and other parts of the body such as the eyes, skin, and internal organs. All children, regardless of their age, are at risk of developing pediatric rheumatism, but is this disease considered dangerous?

 

There are several common types of rheumatism in children, and we will review them in detail below:

1. **Ankylosing spondylitis**: It is a type of arthritis that affects children, and specifically targets the spine, causing pain in the back, joints, buttocks, and thighs. The child suffers from morning stiffness and loss of appetite, which leads to weight loss. The presence of the gene (HLA-B27) is often associated with the child's condition.

2. **Rheumatic fever**: This condition affects many of the body's joints, heart, blood vessels, and skin, and usually appears in children between the ages of 5 and 15, and often occurs after infection with streptococcus bacteria.

3. **Fibromyalgia**: Also known as fibromyalgia, it is a chronic condition that causes persistent pain in the muscles and tissues in multiple areas such as the neck, arms, legs, back, chest, and shoulders. Symptoms usually start in one part of the body and then spread to other parts, greatly affecting the child's life.

4. **Dermatomyositis**: This type affects children between the ages of 5 and 10, and leads to muscle weakness in areas such as the neck, shoulders, and hips, in addition to the appearance of a rash in some areas such as the eyelid and joints, especially the joints of the fingers. The child also suffers from weight loss due to difficulty swallowing.

5. **Psoriatic arthritis**: It is a rare type of chronic arthritis that affects the skin and joints, often targeting the joints of the fingers, knees, elbows, ankles, and lower back. Its most prominent symptoms include a red rash that causes skin irritation and itching, in addition to its effect on the nails.

6. **Septic arthritis**: This type affects the synovial fluid of the joint and its tissues, and usually occurs as a result of the transmission of infection through the bloodstream. It causes swelling and inflammation of the joints, with redness in the affected area, which limits the child's movement.

The types are not limited to what was mentioned, but there are other types such as lupus and Kawasaki disease, which raises the question about the severity of childhood rheumatism.

**What are the causes of childhood rheumatism?**

The difficulty of diagnosing childhood rheumatism is related to the question about its severity, as the cause varies according to the type of rheumatism. The infection is usually due to one of the following reasons:

- A defect in the immune system that leads to attacking healthy body tissues.
- Genetic and hereditary factors.
- Exposure to certain infections.
- Some environmental factors that may stimulate infection.
- Metabolic problems.

Studies show that girls may be more susceptible to some types of rheumatism such as lupus, while ankylosing spondylitis is more common among boys.

**Is childhood rheumatism a serious condition?**

 

The answer to the question of whether childhood rheumatism is serious is related to the complications associated with this disease, as it is an autoimmune disease that can affect several systems and organs in the body. The most prominent complications associated with this condition are:

- Some types of rheumatism may affect the spine, causing severe pain for the child, especially in the neck and lower back.
- In the case of rheumatism that causes arthritis, this may lead to erosion of the tissues surrounding the joints, as is the case with ankylosing spondylitis, which may cause erosion of the sacroiliac joint.
- Many other joints in the body are affected, such as the knee, heel, hands and wrist.
- The disease may affect the child's growth rate over time, either due to the disease itself or as a result of the effect of corticosteroid medications that the child takes as part of the treatment. Many cases may also suffer from anemia.
- The child becomes more susceptible to iritis and uveitis in the eye.
- Some children may have delayed sexual puberty.
- In severe cases, the disease may lead to joint damage and chronic disability in the child. Therefore, the question that comes to parents' minds when their children are diagnosed with this condition is: Is childhood rheumatism dangerous?

**Symptoms of rheumatic heart disease in children**

 

Symptoms often appear in the child two to four weeks after being exposed to a tonsil infection due to staphylococcus bacteria. The most prominent of these symptoms are:

- High temperature.
- Joint pain, especially in the knee, elbow, wrist and ankle joints.
- Pain in one joint that moves to another.
- Redness, heat and swelling of the joints.
- The appearance of small, painless red spots under the skin.
- Painless rash with slightly raised extremities.
- Feeling very tired.
- Chest pain.
- Swelling in the abdomen, hands and feet.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Breathing disturbances.
- Moderate or severe headache.
- Involuntary body movements due to inflammation of the nervous system.
- Abnormal behavior of the child, such as unjustified crying or laughing without reason.

**Can juvenile rheumatism be cured?**

 

Juvenile rheumatism (JIA) is a chronic disorder and cannot be completely cured. However, the condition can be managed effectively and achieve significant improvement in symptoms and control of rheumatism.

The main goal of treating juvenile rheumatism is to reduce symptoms and swellingAnd improve joint function. In some cases, rheumatism may cause damage to certain joints, which requires surgery to improve the function of the affected joints.

**When does a child get rheumatism?**

 

Children can get juvenile rheumatism at any age, but it is most common in the pre-adolescent years. The infection may begin in early childhood, before the age of 16, and symptoms usually appear between the ages of 1 and 3 years, or it may be diagnosed in the early teens. There is no specific cause of the infection, but it is believed that there are many factors, such as genetic and environmental factors, play a role in the onset of the disease.

**Does rheumatism develop?**

 

Yes, rheumatism can develop over time, as the extent of the disease's development and its effect on individuals varies from one case to another. In some cases, symptoms may develop gradually, while rapid deterioration can occur in other cases. The development of the disease includes the following:

- Worsening of symptoms.
- Increasing number of affected joints.
- Increased inflammation and swelling.
- Deterioration of the function of the affected joints.
- Damage to the joints and surrounding tissues, leading to increased disability and pain.

Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor if the child suffers from symptoms indicating arthritis or persistent pain, such as joint swelling, redness, stiffness, and pain. It is important to evaluate the condition by a specialized medical team to determine the severity of rheumatoid arthritis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

**Complications of rheumatism in children**

 

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis can lead to several serious complications, but careful monitoring of the child's condition and seeking appropriate medical care can significantly reduce the risk of these complications, which include:

1. **Eye problems**
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis can cause eye inflammation, especially if the condition is left untreated, which can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and even blindness. Eye inflammation frequently occurs without symptoms, so it is important for children with this condition to be examined regularly by an ophthalmologist.

2. **Growth problems**
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis can interfere with the child's growth and bone development, especially due to some medications used in treatment, such as corticosteroids.

**Diagnosing Rheumatism in Children**

 

Diagnosing rheumatism in children can be challenging, as there is no single, specific method for diagnosis. The doctor relies on a combination of medical examinations and radiological images to confirm the diagnosis. In addition to clinical examination and monitoring symptoms, the following tests can help diagnose rheumatism:

1. **Blood tests**
Blood tests needed to diagnose rheumatism include the following:

- **Antinuclear Antibody (ANA)**: Reveals the level of antibodies that rise in cases of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatism.

- **Complete Blood Test**: Shows the red and white blood cell count, hemoglobin level, and platelet count.

- **Complement Test**: Measures the level of complement proteins, as low levels indicate the presence of immune diseases such as rheumatism.

- **Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)**: Measures the rate at which red blood cells sediment, as the rate increases with increased inflammation.

- **C-reactive protein (CRP) test**: Its level rises in the presence of inflammation, and can help monitor the disease and response to treatment.

- **Rheumatoid factor (RF) test**: It is one of the antibodies found in the blood of most rheumatism patients.

2. **Radiological images**
Radiological images are used to determine the extent of bone damage caused by rheumatism, including:

- X-rays.
- Computed tomography.
- Magnetic resonance imaging.
- Bone imaging using radioisotopes.

**Traditional methods for treating pediatric rheumatism**

 

Treatment of rheumatic diseases includes a variety of methods that are applied according to the type of rheumatism the child suffers from, the severity of symptoms, and the age group. The most prominent treatment methods used are:

1. **Physical therapy**
It aims to enhance muscle strength and joint movement and relieve pain. This includes targeted therapeutic exercises, movement therapy techniques, and vigorous exercises.

2. **Motivational therapy**
Includes psychological and social support, and aims to help the child face daily challenges and promote his/her overall development.

3. **Pharmacological therapy**
Includes the use of painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids such as prednisone to reduce inflammation. Antirheumatic drugs, such as sulfasalazine, are also used to treat immune system dysfunction.

4. **Lifestyle changes**
Includes helping the child lose excess weight if he/she is obese, which reduces pressure on the joints. The child is also trained to do exercises that help relieve joint stiffness. In advanced cases, some assistive devices such as crutches may be used.

5. **Surgical treatment**
It is considered a last resort in severe cases that lead to joint damage, where surgery can be performed to replace or repair the joint.

**Treatment of rheumatism with herbs and natural methods**

 

Methods of treating rheumatism with herbs and natural methods include the following:

1. **Ginger**
Ginger is used to treat many conditions, and is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Up to four cups of ginger tea can be consumed daily, but people who take blood thinners or have gallstones should avoid it.

2. **Green tea**
It contains compounds that reduce inflammation and swelling. It is recommended to drink 4-6 cups daily, and it is necessary to consult a doctor before adding it to the diet.

3. **Exercise**
A physical therapist can help determine appropriate exercises to relieve symptoms, such as swimming and cycling, which strengthens the muscles around the joints.

4. **Using warm and cold compresses**
Warm or cold compresses can provideCold Temporary relief from pain. It is recommended to use it at home with rest afterward.

5. **Lifestyle changes**
Reducing physical and emotional stress can help some people, through techniques such as meditation, tai chi, and yoga.

6. **Eating a proper diet**
A plant-based diet can improve overall health and reduce inflammation in people with rheumatism.

7. **Taking supplements**
Fish oil, curcumin supplements, and probiotics can help reduce inflammation, but caution should be taken when taking them with certain medications.

8. **Acupuncture**
This treatment aims to stimulate energy in the body, which may help relieve inflammation pain.

9. **Using aromatherapy**
Aromatherapy may not directly affect pain, but it can improve mood. Be careful when using essential oils on the skin.

10. **Biofeedback**

This method is considered one of the useful methods in pain management and improving the general condition
This technique helps you control automatic responses such as heart rate and blood pressure. You can apply it by placing sensors on your body, as these sensors send information to the display device that teaches you how to manage your reactions to stress, which contributes to reducing pain.

**Aloe Vera**: Aloe Vera has multiple uses in treating many diseases, and is also used in cosmetics thanks to its beneficial components. Aloe Vera is effective in relieving joint pain, as it works as an anti-inflammatory. It can be massaged into the legs and feet and left for a whole day to get rid of rheumatism pain.

**Dalia Thunder Goddess Herb**: This ancient herb is considered part of Chinese medicine, as it helps reduce excessive activity of the immune system. It is used by applying it directly to the skin.

**Cinnamon**: Cinnamon contains a group of natural substances that contribute to healing rheumatism problems, which may negatively affect the ability to walk and weaken the bones. It is recommended to have a cup of cinnamon daily.

**Cat's Claw**: This herb is known for its effectiveness in treating swelling associated with arthritis and boosting the immune system. It is extracted from the bark and root of a tropical plant that grows in South and Central America. Some side effects may occur such as nausea, dizziness or low blood pressure.

**Indian Frankincense**: Also known as "male frankincense", it is extracted from the gum of Boswellia trees in India. Traditional medicine practitioners have used it for its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that capsules containing Indian frankincense extract may help relieve pain and inflammation, but these studies need more research. Taking 1 gram per day is generally considered safe, but high doses may affect the liver. Indian frankincense is available in the form of capsules and topical creams.

**Eucalyptus**: Also known as "eucalyptus" or "camphor" in some Arab countries. Its leaves contain tannins that help reduce swelling and relieve pain resulting from arthritis. Eucalyptus oil can be mixed with a neutral oil such as almond oil and applied to swollen joints. It is advisable to perform a sensitivity test before using any product containing eucalyptus.

**Parsley**: Parsley contains a range of nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, copper and phosphorus, in addition to many vitamins such as A, C, K and E. Parsley is effective in preventing arthritis and rheumatic pain. It can be eaten in foods or its leaves can be boiled to relieve joint pain.

**Chamomile**: Chamomile is a powerful natural herb in treating joint and bone pain thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is prepared like tea.

**Mint**: Mint has been used in folk medicine for a long time and is considered useful in treating rheumatism and relieving joint pain. A drink can be prepared from mint leaves boiled in water, then sweetened with honey before drinking.