What causes arthritis in children?

The causes of childhood arthritis may include genetic factors, infection, immune system abnormalities, trauma, etc. The cause must be identified as early as possible and targeted treatment must be carried out to avoid worsening of the disease and affecting growth.

1. Genetic factors

Some childhood arthritis may be genetically related. If there is a family history of similar diseases, children may be at a higher risk of developing juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). This type of disease is the result of the development of autoimmune dysfunction, which usually causes inflammation, swelling and pain in the joints. Although genetics cannot be changed, parents can take their children for regular checkups to detect abnormalities early.

2 Immune response triggered by infection

Viral or bacterial infections may be important triggers for arthritis in young children. After infection with certain bacteria such as streptococci, mycoplasma pneumoniae, or viruses, the immune system may attack its own tissues, thereby damaging the joints. In such cases, strengthening children's personal hygiene habits and following doctor's advice when they are infected can effectively reduce the risk of subsequent complications.

3. Immune system abnormalities

Autoimmune disorders are one of the important pathogenic mechanisms of childhood arthritis. When the immune system mistakenly attacks normal joint tissue, local inflammation, pain, and even dysfunction may occur. This situation is often manifested in juvenile idiopathic arthritis JIA or other rheumatic diseases. Treatment usually includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs such as methotrexate, and even hormone drugs such as prednisone to relieve symptoms in severe cases.

4 Trauma and environmental factors

Certain trauma such as falls, collisions or excessive activity may trigger acute symptoms of arthritis. Cold and humid environments may aggravate symptoms, so it is important to provide children with warm and dry living conditions, especially in winter. Maintaining appropriate activities and avoiding heavy physical loads are also effective measures to protect joints.

5Other related pathological factors

Certain diseases may be complicated by arthritis, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid disease, etc. Such pathological factors are usually accompanied by other typical symptoms such as rash, fever, etc., and need to be diagnosed through blood tests, imaging examinations, etc., and receive guidance and treatment from rheumatologists.

Arthritis in children is caused by many factors. Parents should be alert to the symptoms of redness, swelling and pain in their children's joints and take them to the doctor in time. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis and delay the impact of the disease on joint development. At the same time, combined with reasonable life care, it can escort the healthy growth of children.