Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune or inflammatory disease, and is the most common form of arthritis affecting children and teenagers. JIA causes the immune system to get confused and attack the body’s own cells and tissues. This leads to pain, inflammation and swelling around the joints. It can also damage bones, the joint cartilage between bones and other parts of the body. JIA affects approximately 1 in 800 young people.

Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of JIA include:

• pain and inflammation in the knees, ankles, elbows, hands, wrists and other joints
• joint stiffness, particularly on waking or after staying in one position for too long
• red, swollen, tender or warm joints
• mental and physical tiredness
• eye inflammation, blurry vision or dry, gritty eyes
• rash
• loss of appetite
• high fever.

Symptoms can change and become more or less severe over time.

What causes JIA?

Researchers believe JIA may occur when a gene is activated by a virus, bacteria or another factor.

How is JIA diagnosed?

If your child has symptoms of inflammation for more than 6 weeks, your doctor will take a full medical history and conduct tests including:

• physical examination
• blood tests
• X-rays and scans
• eye examination.

These tests will help establish if your child has JIA or another condition.

There are several types of JIA – your child may initially be diagnosed with one type but this may develop into another type over time.

Treatment

Although there is no cure for JIA, a healthcare team can provide support and help your child manage their symptoms. This team may include your GP, physiotherapists, rheumatologists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, dietitians and other specialists.

Helping your child to stay active, learn ways to manage pain, eat well and protect their joints will also help them manage this disease.

Most children will need to take medication when JIA flare-ups occur.

Managing flare-ups

When JIA is active, or symptoms worsen, it’s known as a ‘flare’ or ‘flare-up’. Flare-ups can last for days or weeks. These may develop after your child has an infection, or without any warning or apparent trigger. It’s important to treat flare-ups as soon as possible to help reduce pain and prevent lasting joint damage. Read more about managing flare-ups of juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

More information

Juvenile Arthritis Foundation Australia – JAFA
Arthritis Australia