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Juvenile arthritis

Also called: Juvenile arthritis, JIA

Ongoing joint swelling in children, with stiffness that's worse in the morning.

TreatmentMedicines, therapy

Overview

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is arthritis that starts before 16 and lasts over 6 weeks.

Some types cause eye inflammation without symptoms, so eye exams are important.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Swollen joints

Less common

  • Morning stiffness
  • Limp
  • Fever and rash in some types

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayFever with rash.
See a doctor soonSwollen joints.

Causes

Immune.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Girls: More common
  • Children 1 to 6: Some types start then

Possible complications

  • Uveitis: Eye inflammation without symptoms; needs eye exams
  • Growth problems: Uneven bone growth

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Blood tests:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Stay active
  • Use heat for stiffness

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).
  • A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Living with it

  • Stay active with walking, swimming, or biking.
  • Keep a healthy weight to ease joint strain.
  • Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people can keep working or going to school.
  • Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Regular eye exams are needed.
  • Girls: More common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

  • Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
  • Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
  • Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Many children go into remission.

Many reach remission.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?
  • How often does my child need eye exams?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Juvenile arthritis

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.