Psoriatic arthritis; Psoriasis is a skin condition which causes the skin to flake away among other symptoms. Some sufferers develop a form of arthritis as a result which causes inflammation in and around the joints. Most joints can be affected but it is usually the fingers and toes with pitted and discoloured nails. About 30% of those with the condition also have spondylitis. Anti-inflammatory drugs will help and disease-modifying drugs might be offered but these will require regular blood tests. Some anti-TNF drugs are now being used, but access is limited and steroid injections are often used in particular areas. The skin condition is treated and once again exercise is recommended along with relaxation for stress.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) is a disease where the body’s immune system is upset and the immune cells in the blood that are supposed to defend against infection begin to attack the body instead. This causes inflammation and because it is a systemic disease this affects many parts of the body. Lupus is often difficult to diagnose, it will often mimic other conditions and comes and goes, it occurs mostly in younger women. If you have lupus and are thinking of becoming pregnant get advice from your doctor. Many different drugs are used to treat lupus (DMARDs) and anti-malarial drugs are commonly used and once a suitable treatment is found the affects are greatly reduced.
Oligo-articular JIA is the commonest form of childhood arthritis and only affects four or fewer joints. The affected joints will be painful and swollen, but the child isn’t generally unwell, the large joints are mostly affected, but eye problems are common and specialist checks are necessary. The outlook is good, but some children will develop joint damage.
Polyarticular JIA affects a larger number of joints. It can start at any age and spreads quickly from one joint to another, often within months. Children with this condition will be unwell, have a fever and maybe a rash.
Systemic onset JIA This type of arthritis begins with systemic symptoms such as fever, rashes, lethargy and swollen glands. It can affect the whole body and early signs are often mistaken for infections.
Treatment for JIA is much the same as with adults, exercise and a lifestyle that is as normal as possible, including keeping school and social activities going are very important, support where it is required will be necessary.
