What are the symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)?
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis—now most commonly referred to as JIA—causes chronic joint inflammation beginning in childhood. Symptoms can vary widely: some children present with morning stiffness, limping, reduced activity, and visible swelling rather than obvious pain. Knees, ankles, wrists, and small hand joints are commonly involved. Joints may feel warm and tender. Systemic signs such as fatigue, poor appetite, and low-grade fever can occur. Certain subtypes may include rash and fluctuating fever episodes. A key “silent” risk is eye inflammation (uveitis), which may be asymptomatic, so routine ophthalmologic screening is often essential. Early recognition and assessment help protect long-term function and support healthy growth and development.