Arthritis is usually assumed to be a condition that primarily affects the elderly. It is important to remember, however, that arthritis can affect every age group, including adolescents and children. In particular, the Arthritis Foundationestimates that roughly 300,000 children and young people in the United States have arthritis or rheumatic disease.
Living with Arthritis as an adolescent
Living with arthritis as an adolescent can be a difficult and alienating experience. The condition can have an impact on a person’s physical and mental well-being, as well as their capacity to participate in daily activities.
Arthritis is a disorder that affects the body’s joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis are the most frequent types of arthritis that affect young individuals.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation. It usually affects the hands, wrists, and feet, but it can affect other parts of the body as well. A type of arthritis that affects adolescents under the age of 16 is known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis. On the other hand, Psoriatic arthritis is a kind of arthritis that develops in persons who have psoriasis, a skin ailment characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin.
Symptoms and Effects of Arthritis in Young People
As a young person having arthritis, the condition can impair a person’s physical ability, making it difficult to engage in daily activities such as sports, hobbies, and even basic self-care. Young people with arthritis may have joint discomfort, stiffness, and swelling, making it difficult to move about and do fine motor skills tasks.
In addition to the physical symptoms of arthritis, young individuals may also have psychosocial difficulties. Arthritis can be a frustrating and isolating condition, especially in social situations. Young individuals may feel excluded from activities with their friends, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Treatment of Arthritis
Treating arthritis as an adolescent demands a comprehensive strategy. Medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and food adjustment are all included in the treatment of it. Young individuals with arthritis must collaborate closely with their healthcare providers to design a treatment plan that matches their specific needs.
Young people with arthritis may benefit from support groups or counseling services in addition to medicinal therapies. These materials can assist people in coping with the emotional issues of arthritis and connecting with others who are going through similar situations.
Social Aspects of Arthritis
One of the most difficult aspects of arthritis for young people is negotiating the social aspects of the condition. Arthritis can be an invisible illness, which means that people may not recognize a young person has it. As a result, there may be misunderstandings and a lack of support from others.
To combat this, young people with arthritis must be upfront and honest about their condition with everyone around them. This could include informing friends and family members about the ailment and how it affects their daily lives. It may also entail advocating for themselves in social contexts, such as while participating in group activities.
It is also important for society to understand and support young individuals with arthritis. This may entail raising awareness and educating others about the condition, as well as pushing for legislation and services that address the needs of young people living with arthritis.