Understanding Lupus in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, internal organs, and nervous system. Although lupus is more common in adults, children can also get it. In this article, we'll talk about lupus in children, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Reason

The exact cause of lupus is not known, but several risk factors can affect a person's likelihood of developing it, such as genetic factors, sun exposure, and viral infections. Children who have a family history of lupus are also more at risk for developing this disease.

Symptom

Lupus symptoms in children can vary depending on which organs are affected. Some common symptoms of lupus in children include:

• skin rash
• joint swelling and pain
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• stomach ache
• shortness of breath
• chest pain
• loss of appetite

Diagnosis

To diagnose lupus in children, the doctor will perform a physical examination and ask for a family medical history. In addition, the doctor can do blood and urine tests to check for signs of inflammation or damage to internal organs. If needed, the doctor can do a biopsy to examine the affected body tissue.

Treatment

Treatment of lupus in children depends on the symptoms and severity of the disease. Some of the treatments that can be given include

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Antimalarial drugs to relieve rashes and other skin symptoms
• Corticosteroid drugs to reduce inflammation in internal organs
• Immunosuppressive drugs reduce the activity of the immune system.
• Physical and occupational therapy to help reduce pain and improve mobility

In addition to medical treatment, children with lupus also need care and support from their families and medical team. Maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough rest can help reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for children with lupus.

Every small action has the potential to make a big difference in the lives of children with lupus. Together, we can provide support and help them deal better with this disease. If your child has complaints related to lupus, immediately consult a pediatrician at Hermina Samarinda Hospital.