Anxiety is very common amongst the general population of children and teens. We also know that some children with hyper-IgD syndrome have significant effects of this auto-inflammatory disorder on the brain during development, resulting in neuro-behavioral issues. Anxiety might be one behavior that results from the difficulty coping with daily routines that are challenging [...]
There are numerous professionals with expertise in treating selective mutism. Addressing the selective mutism might help your teen and you to feel more confident when she transitions to adult care. In addition, talk to your pediatric rheumatology team, and together you can develop a plan specific for your teen that will take into [...]
I assume you are talking about neuropsychiatric disorder such as ADHD, Tourettes, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. It is important to know that these disorders are common in the general population of children, so we do see children who may have BOTH JIA and a neurodevelopmental disorder. Research has not shown higher rates [...]
In some rheumatic diseases, such as systemic lupus or vasculitis, involvement of the brain is well known, although does not affect all patients. Some children with periodic fever disorders may have inflammation affecting the brain as well. Many other rheumatic diseases, such as arthritis, are not known to directly affect the brain with [...]
I am not aware of any research that suggests higher rates of ADHD in children with JIA.
This is one of those specific rheumatic diseases where more study is needed regarding the psychological impact of JDM. I am aware of a couple of studies that look at quality of life in youth with juvenile dermatomyositis that show lower quality of life than peers.
There is no current research on CBD products in children or adolescents, either for general health issues or treatment of chronic arthritis or mental health issues. There are risks associated with the use of these products and therefore they are not recommended for children at this time.
SRIs (serotonin-reuptake inhibitors) have been shown to offer benefit to some individuals for anxiety and depression. Medications might be something to consider for those with moderate to severe symptoms and when there is substantial functional impact from the symptoms. As for children/youth with rheumatic disease, you will need to talk with your prescribing [...]
Keep an eye out for those common presenting behaviours that often present with children/teens who are experiencing mood challenges. They include the following: Irritability/anger, moody Persistent sadness or feelings hopelessness, worthlessness or having excessive guilt Not enjoying things they used to enjoy Behavioural concerns (increase in defiance or tantrums, clingy Withdrawn Changes in energy [...]
Yes, there are many things that can be done to reduce anxiety about receiving needles. For some parents, this means coming up with a coping plan- things like using distraction, giving the child a sense of control by offering options (e.g., where the injection goes, look away, using numbing cream, identifying distractions to use). [...]
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