Mother checks sick child’s temperature who has an autoimmune disorder

Pediatric Wellness: Here are the 4 Most Common Autoimmune Disorders in Children

Autoimmune disorders are rare in children. But these disorders continue to be found and are on the rise. And even though the causes of these diseases are not exactly known, there are a few more common disorders in children that all parents should know about.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is by far the most commonly diagnosed autoimmune disease in children. And this is usually found in children under 3 years of age.

When a child reaches an age between 6 and 9 months old, this is typically when wheat or gluten is introduced into their diet. And this is generally when Celiac disease begins to form. However, some children may also develop this disease later in life, though researchers don’t exactly know the cause.

Type-1 Diabetes

Sometimes referred to as juvenile diabetes, Type-1 Diabetes is considered rare and occurs when a child’s pancreas produces little to no insulin. This condition is also not curable but can be treated through regular care.

When a child has Type-1 Diabetes, as a parent, you need to ensure that your child is eating healthy foods, keeping up with insulin treatments, and staying on top of any other health conditions that may arise.

Juvenile Arthritis

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is also considered quite rare. And many parents commonly believe that this is a condition that the child will eventually outgrow. However, though some cases of remission are evident, the condition can persist throughout life.

It’s worth noting that a child’s symptoms associated with this condition are usually the most painful after waking up in the morning or after naps. Some of these symptoms include:

  • Stiffness in joints
  • Swelling in joints
  • Warmth or redness around joints
  • Fatigue
  • Inflammation of the eyes
  • Lupus

Pediatric Lupus is often detected as a child begins entering adolescence – usually by the age of 12. But it’s important to know that, though very rare, cases of pediatric Lupus have been found in children under 5 years of age.

Lupus affects children in the same way as it affects adults, with persistent pain, fever, and rashes that are often found on the cheeks and across the bridge of the nose.

Newbridge Health & Wellness is a science-based clinic practicing functional and integrative medicine based in Edina, Minnesota.

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