Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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A child with RA.

Kimberley97
Kimberley97
My question is do any of y'all have a child who has developed RA? My daughter just turned 19 she has been tested a couple of years ago for symptoms (I have seronegative RA) the test came back negative but for the past few months she has had worsening symptoms of RA. I wonder if she could be seronegative too. But I realize there are other things that can cause similar symptoms so I'm going to take her to my rhuemy. I just wondered if any one else here had an issue like this. Of course I'm worried sick. But she doesn't know it worries me. I'm trying to play it off to her.
2leftfeet
2leftfeet
It is great that she has a mother who is able to stay on top of this. My father's mother had very severe, crippling RA. Of her six children, and their 4 - 7 children, I am the only one that has developed RA. It is good that you're taking her to a rheumatologist, so you can find out for sure. I hope things go well
depotblue
depotblue
yeah my 23 year old daughter was complaining about fasciitis last week (plus she has raynaud's and idiopathic scoliosis) and you know where my mind was going...

stay aware and offer responses and interventions, when asked, but don't hyper attune. i find that works for me if it resonates with you

depot
MarleneJ
MarleneJ
None of my kids developed RA, although they are only in their 30's and 40's.

As for children, my cousin developed JRA at age 1 1/2. She has terrible deformities, and her hands are the worst. She hasn't been able to use them for years. Her father cared for her most of her life, but when he died, she had to get full time aides. Her mom is pretty bad now too, so the aides help both of them. She spends a LOT of money.

My cousin had JRA then it went away in her 20's for a few years - then she developed adult onset.

If your daughter has symptoms, I would urge you to get her to see a rheumatologist. The earlest interventions are best, even if it is still mild.

And praying that she doesn't have it. But if she does, I know you will be a great help to her.