Arthritis, a condition causing inflammation of the joints, is often thought of as a condition that primarily affects older adults. However, it can also strike children and young adults, significantly impacting their quality of life. On this World Arthritis Day, which falls on 11 October every year, we spoke to our expert Dr Deepthi Nandan Reddy, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Clinical Director, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, to understand arthritis in children and young adults and its causes.
Arthritis In Children And Young Adults
Dr Reddy said, “Arthritis in young adults and children is rare but can occur. It is a condition characterised by inflammation in the joints, which can lead to damage to the cartilage lining within the joints. This damage can result in irregularities on the joint surfaces and a range of painful and limiting symptoms, including swelling and reduced joint mobility.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 2,20,000 children and adolescents grappled with arthritis from 2017-2021. The likelihood of experiencing this condition escalated as individuals grew older, peaking in the 12-17-year age group.
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Causes Of Arthritis In Children And Young Adults
Inflammation in the joints can occur for various reasons. Dr Reddy listed some of the common causes of arthritis in the young population as follows:
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
One of the leading causes in this age group is rheumatoid arthritis, referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children. Dr Reddy said, “This form of arthritis is considered an autoimmune inflammatory arthritis, where the immune system attacks the synovium (joint lining), leading to inflammation. While the exact cause is unknown, there is often a genetic predisposition.”
She added, “The inflammation seen in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis predominantly affects smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, but it can also involve larger joints. Common symptoms include early morning stiffness, mild joint swelling, and occasional episodes of fever.”
She further said, “If left uncontrolled by medication, this inflammation can gradually erode the cartilage lining, damage ligaments around the joints, and ultimately result in joint deformities, particularly in the hands and feet.”
Gout
Gout is another common cause of joint inflammation in young adults. Dr Reddy said, “This condition results from an excessive production of uric acid in the body, leading to the deposition of uric acid crystals around joints and tendons, causing inflammation. Factors contributing to the rise of gout in recent times include high-protein diets and low fluid intake since uric acid is a byproduct of protein metabolism.”
Dr Reddy noted, “Other, though rarer, causes of arthritis in the young include psoriasis, metabolic disorders, and extremely rare cases of infections like tuberculosis.”
Also Read: Understanding Juvenile Arthritis: Expert Explains Its Symptoms In Children
How To Diagnose Arthritis
Arthritis is often not immediately evident in its early stages. Early identification is crucial for preventing joint damage and limb deformities. Dr Reddy said, “Diagnosis typically involves specific blood tests and, at times, high-resolution ultrasound scans of the hands and feet.”
How To Manage Arthritis In The Young
Once identified, arthritis in young adults and children can be effectively managed. Dr Reddy said, “Treatment involves controlling inflammation through medication. Regular exercises aimed at maintaining joint function are vital for preventing stiffness. In some cases, joint injections may be used to reduce inflammation, and surgery may be necessary if deformities have already occurred.”
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you notice any symptoms of arthritis.]