How To Manage Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Common JRA Symptom: Eye Problems

Eye infections are relatively common in childhood as many bacterial infections can easily be passed by classmates at school. In JRA, serious complications can arise in children’s eyes as a result of inflammation, causing blindness if untreated. Often, inflammation in the eye starts off as redness, eye pain or blurred vision, which can progress into something more serious. JRA related eye complications include iritis, which is inflammation around the iris and uveitis, the middle layer of the eye. It is important for children to see a pediatric opthamologist at the first sign of experiencing inflammation around the eyes. These eye specialists will work alongside the child’s rheumatologist to create a thorough treatment plan to prevent further damage.