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Learn more about national medication shortages affecting people and pharmacist everywhere, what causes shortages, steps you can take if you are affected, and other frequently asked questions. Read on.

Medication Shortages, Explained | Alto Pharmacy

Few things are more frustrating — or frightening — than being unable to access the medication your doctor has prescribed. But it has become a common experience in recent years, as medication shortages remain a persistent healthcare challenge in the U.S. And if you take medication, you may be familiar with the panic of struggling to find enough of what you need.

Not only are these shortages incredibly frustrating and debilitating, they are also confusing and unpredictable, arising seemingly at random, and with little known about an anticipated resolution.

While Alto will always go above and beyond to bring you your medications without delay, these shortages are beyond our control, and we share your frustrations and concerns. To provide more clarity and context as to why these shortages occur — and why, unfortunately, there are few short-term solutions — we’ve compiled answers to some of the questions we hear most frequently.

Like every pharmacy across the country — as well as many around the world — Alto has been affected by medication shortages in the last few years. Each pharmacy’s stock fluctuates in tandem with demand, so if you call multiple pharmacies, it’s possible that one will have a greater supply of an affected medication than another on any given day. But ultimately, no pharmacy is immune to these challenges, and if a medication is in short supply, each pharmacy may feel the impact at some point.

If Alto currently does not carry your medication and you would like to transfer your prescription to another pharmacy, be sure to call that new pharmacy to confirm availability of your medication — medication shortages often impact most pharmacies within a specific region. 

The causes of medication shortages are complex, with multiple, and often intersecting, factors at play.

Any issues that affect the production of a medication may lead to reduced supply. This includes disruptions to manufacturing, like when Hurricane Maria damaged production sites in Puerto Rico in 2017.

Covid is another example of how a natural disaster or global crisis can disrupt medication production. The United States relies heavily on other countries for the raw ingredients needed to manufacture a medication.* This leaves us incredibly vulnerable to changes in workforce capacity or manufacturing activities overseas.

*As of 2019, only 28% of our country’s supply of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) — the substances directly responsible for a medication’s therapeutic benefits — were manufactured domestically.

Even when manufacturing circumstances are ideal, rising demand for a medication can lead to low supply. This winter’s difficult cold and flu season, with high cases of Covid, the flu, and R.S.V., contributed to a decreased supply of children’s formulations of ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and several commonly prescribed antibiotics.

Adderall®, a stimulant used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is another medication whose demand has increased in recent years. Prescriptions for the medication increased by 15.1% in 2020, in comparison to a 7.4% increase in 2019. This comes after a surge in new ADHD diagnoses, which more than doubled between 2007 and 2016 and continue to rise. Worker shortages and production delays experienced by Teva, a leading manufacturer of Adderall, have added additional pressure and compounded the challenges.

High demand has also contributed to recent shortages of the diabetes medications Ozempic® and Wegovy®,  as they have been increasingly prescribed for weight loss.

Addressing increased demand is often easier said than done. Most generic manufacturers decide how much of a medication to produce at the beginning of the year, with virtually no flexibility, so it isn’t an option to simply make more. This is why there is often a seasonal pattern to shortages, with many intensifying at the end of the year.

In the case of Adderall, a Schedule II controlled substance, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) imposes strict production quotas to prevent misuse. With quotas based on estimates, our manufacturing system isn't prepared to respond to unexpected factors like the recent rise in ADHD diagnoses. 

Why are shortages happening more frequently?

Medication shortages are in the headlines more these days, but they are not a new occurrence. They have steadily increased since 2006, becoming a public health crisis in more recent years. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) reports that, at the end of 2022, ongoing and active shortages were the highest they’ve been since 2014.

The growing intensity of these shortages reflects the strain that Covid put on our entire healthcare system — which we still haven’t fully recovered from — along with other unpredictable healthcare patterns, like growing demand for ADHD medications.

Are certain medications more likely to be affected than others?

Ultimately, any medication can go into shortage, but some types are more prone to recurring supply chain issues.

Medication shortages frequently occur with commonly used (and low-profit) generic medications — like the antibiotic amoxicillin — as pharmaceutical companies have little financial incentive to produce more of them.

Some injectable generics are especially vulnerable to shortages. Fewer manufacturers make these medications, so any production disruption can become a larger issue.

The Adderall shortage illustrates that low stock of a single medication can create a class-wide issue. For many people with ADHD, switching to another medication has proven challenging, as alternatives grow scarce too. This is also the case with Ozempic and other diabetes medications.

Medication shortages are rooted in factors that are far beyond any one person’s control, and unfortunately, there is little we can do to prevent them. Industry experts have proposed solutions, including ramping up domestic production of key pharmaceutical ingredients and building a more resilient medical supply chain. These aren’t quick fixes, and government action is needed for meaningful progress.

What can I do to navigate a medication shortage?

While many medication shortages are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to potentially minimize their stress and impact.

You can track medication shortages on the U.S. Food & Drug Administration or ASHP websites to learn more about a medication’s supply.

To give yourself more time to figure out a short-term solution — such as switching to an alternative medication — refill your medication as far in advance as you can. In some cases, it may be possible to get a 90-day supply of your medication, though this isn’t always an option for controlled substances, and your insurance plan may also limit coverage of refills.

If your medication is in scarce supply, speak with your doctor about alternatives. In addition to taking a different medication, you may be able to switch to a different dose or formulation. Many medications require that you safely taper off of them, which is another reason it’s important to stay on top of refills and ideally learn about supply issues before the last minute.

If an alternative medication costs more or is not covered by your insurance plan, there are resources to help alleviate some of the burden, including coupons, manufacturer-sponsored copay cards, and patient assistance programs. Alto is here to support your savings investigations, and we also suggest reaching out to your insurance provider and verifying your plan’s details — they may be required to cover a branded option if a generic is unavailable.

Our team can answer any questions you have about your medications. We also offer same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with treatment.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Learn more about national medication shortages affecting people and pharmacist everywhere, what causes shortages, steps you can take if you are affected, and other frequently asked questions.

Pneumonia is a lung infection in which the air sacs in both or one of the lungs are inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms including a cough, fever, and chills. There is a wide spectrum of severity of pneumonia cases — symptoms can range from mild to much more critical. Infants, young children, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems are among the most vulnerable to complications.

Read on for a closer look at symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What to Know About Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection in which the air sacs in both or one of the lungs are inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms including a cough, fever, and chills. There is a wide spectrum of severity of pneumonia cases — symptoms can range from mild to much more critical. Infants, young children, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems are among the most vulnerable to complications.

Read on for a closer look at symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

There are several types of pneumonia, categorized by cause. The three main types are bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia, and mycoplasma pneumonia.

Bacterial pneumonia is the most common — and often the most serious — type of pneumonia. It may be caused by various bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae. It typically develops when the body has been weakened by illness, age, or impaired immune system functioning, which allows the bacteria to enter your lungs.

The following factors can increase a person’s risk for bacterial pneumonia:

Having an existing respiratory disease or viral infection

Viral pneumonia accounts for about a third of all pneumonia cases. It may be caused by various viruses, including the flu.

This less common form of pneumonia — also referred to as atypical pneumonia or walking pneumonia — is caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacterium. Symptoms are typically mild.

Symptoms vary by pneumonia type. Bacterial pneumonia is typically the most severe and requires medical care more frequently than viral pneumonia. Common symptoms may include:

Rapidly increased breathing and heart rate

Bluish lips or nail beds due to low oxygen in the blood

These symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.

Viral pneumonia symptoms typically develop over the course of several days. Initial symptoms often resemble those of the flu, including:

These symptoms often intensify within several days. Later symptoms may include:

If you suspect that you or your child may have pneumonia, it’s important to seek medical care right away rather than waiting for symptoms to become more noticeable. If you are in one of the more vulnerable groups — over 65 or immunocompromised, for example — seeking medical attention is even more critical due to the possibility of complications.

A doctor may be able to diagnose pneumonia based on your health history and a physical exam. The diagnosis process can also include one or more of the following tests:

A chest X-ray, which shows the severity of inflammation in the lungs

Blood tests, which can confirm the infection and identify the underlying cause

A sputum culture, or a mucus sample, which also helps identify the cause of the infection

A pulse oximetry, which measures how much oxygen is in your blood

A chest CT scan, which shows a better view of the lungs and can identify potential complications. This is most commonly used for individuals who may be more vulnerable to complications.

A bronchoscopy, a procedure that offers a view into the airways of the lungs. It is often reserved for more severe or treatment-resistant cases.

Pneumonia treatment can help end the infection and prevent related health complications. The specific course of treatment your doctor recommends will depend on which type of pneumonia you have, the severity of your symptoms, and your personal health history.

Bacterial pneumonia is treated with antibiotics. These medications cure bacteria-caused infections by either killing the bacteria or keeping the bacteria from growing.

The most effective antibiotic to treat bacterial pneumonia depends on your age and health history. These are some of the most commonly prescribed:

Amoxicillin and clavulanate (Augmentin®)

If you are prescribed an antibiotic, it’s important to take it for the full duration. Though you may feel better within a few days of treatment, stopping the medication prematurely can cause the infection to return.

If your pneumonia was caused by a virus, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), zanamivir (Relenza®), or peramivir (Rapivab®). These medications help your body fight off the virus, reducing symptoms and shortening the duration of the infection.

Not all cases of viral pneumonia require antiviral treatment, however, and symptoms can often be managed by:

Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) to control a fever

Consuming an adequate amount of fluids to loosen phlegm

Drinking warm beverages and using a humidifier to help open the airways in your lungs

In addition, allow your body to get as much rest as possible and avoid any form of cigarette smoke, including secondhand smoke.

Always consult your doctor before taking cough medicines to treat pneumonia symptoms, as coughing helps your body clear the infection. If your cough is interfering with your sleep, your doctor can recommend appropriate ways to manage it.

More severe cases of pneumonia, especially bacterial pneumonia, may require hospitalization. If you are hospitalized for pneumonia, you may receive oxygen therapy or intravenous medications, including antibiotics. Your treatment may also include breathing exercises that can loosen the fluids in your lungs.

Individuals with heart conditions or respiratory conditions.

Staying on track with immunizations is one of the most impactful steps you can take to prevent pneumonia. Since the flu is a common cause of viral pneumonia, getting your annual flu shot can also protect your lungs from infection.

The pneumococcal vaccine offers protection against a common type of bacterial pneumonia. This vaccine is especially important for children under the age of five, adults ages 65 and older, and people with certain health conditions that increase the risk of pneumonia complications such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Check with your doctor about which vaccines you need.

Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about your medications, and we offer free same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

A healthy pregnancy begins well in advance of trying to conceive. Preconception health planning sets you up to feel your best while growing a baby, allowing you to work towards health goals and manage preexisting conditions that could potentially result in complications.

How to Have the Healthiest Pregnancy Possible

It can also help you make any necessary changes to your treatment plan — for example, if you take a medication that is considered unsafe during pregnancy, your doctor can help you safely transition to an alternative.

Below, we break down some of the most important steps to take as you focus on your health and wellness while building or growing your family.

1. Consult your doctor about your health history

As you begin to plan for a baby, schedule a doctor’s appointment to identify any health issues that can impact pregnancy — whether it’s your first, second, third, or fourth.

While chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, and asthma are sometimes linked to pregnancy complications, you can prevent health challenges during pregnancy by staying proactive about treatment. For those with diabetes, this means working with your provider to maintain healthy blood sugar levels before trying to conceive. The same goes for hypertension and blood pressure levels.

Read Navigating Pregnancy With Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes

Be sure to discuss any past pregnancy complications, if relevant. Experiencing certain complications in a first pregnancy can increase your risk of having them again in a later pregnancy. These complications include:

This does not mean that a recurrence is inevitable. Proactively managing your risk before and during pregnancy is the most important thing you can do to prevent these complications.

You should also share any health issues that you experienced during postpartum, including mental health challenges.

Changing a medication regimen or treatment plan

A pre-pregnancy care checkup is also an opportunity to discuss potential changes to your treatment plan. Bring all medications you are currently taking with you to this appointment, including vitamins and herbal remedies.

Never stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor. Many medications cannot be abruptly discontinued and require you to slowly titrate, or taper off, over a period of time

It is recommended to focus on preconception health at least three months prior to pregnancy. However, everyone has unique health needs, and you may need more time to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. Try, as much as possible, to be patient and give your body the time and space it needs.

2. Get all recommended vaccines and screenings

At the beginning of your family building journey, ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for your age. Certain infections or illnesses can cause birth defects or pregnancy complications. Many of these can be prevented with vaccines. And since illness-fighting antibodies can pass through the placenta, vaccinated individuals can pass along immunity to their growing baby in the womb.

It’s important to stay up to date since the recommended timing of vaccines varies. Not all can be given during pregnancy while others can. Your doctor can clarify which vaccines are recommended before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and after delivery. (Two of the most important vaccines for pregnant women, the flu vaccine and the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), can be safely administered during pregnancy.)

Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV, HPV, and viral hepatitis can cause pregnancy complications and harm a developing fetus. Fortunately, treatment can prevent transmission to a baby. Screening for these infections is a critical step in planning for a healthy pregnancy.

3. Take steps to live your healthiest life

In the months before trying to conceive, revisit your health habits and make any changes to your routine or lifestyle that can support the healthiest pregnancy possible. There are several key areas to focus on.

Several nutrients are especially important to consume in the months before pregnancy. 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day for at least a month before pregnancy through the first trimester. This important nutrient supports a baby’s growth and development and can prevent certain birth defects.

Depending on your health history and previous pregnancies, your provider may advise you to increase your intake of folic acid with an additional supplement.

(You can add prenatal vitamins to your next Alto delivery!)

Calcium helps build a developing fetus’s bones and teeth. Dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt are the primary sources of calcium, but you can also get this nutrient from other sources including:

If you are concerned about your calcium intake, ask your doctor about calcium supplements.

Iron also helps support a healthy pregnancy. Some prenatal vitamins include iron. It can also be found in the following iron-rich foods:

In addition, be sure to eat foods that support your body’s absorption of iron, including the following fruits and veggies, which are rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene:

If you have anemia, your doctor may recommend additional iron supplements.

An omega-3 fatty acid called DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is important for fetal growth and development. It can be found in some foods such as fatty fish. Depending on your diet, your doctor may recommend taking supplemental DHA before and during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Some prenatal vitamins contain DHA, but not all, so be sure to check the ingredient list.

Since heavy caffeine consumption can affect fertility, it is recommended to reduce your intake to 200-300 mg per day.

Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, incorporating some muscle-strengthening exercises.

Being underweight or overweight can cause health issues during pregnancy. Try to reach and maintain a healthy weight in the months before trying to conceive. Your provider is an important resource and can advise you on whether your weight may impact your pregnancy.

Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain drugs — including misusing prescription medication — can cause serious health issues during pregnancy like preterm birth and birth defects. When planning for a future pregnancy, do not be afraid to ask for any support needed to give up harmful behaviors. Your provider can offer resources. 

It’s also important to avoid secondhand smoke during pregnancy.

Genetics are a factor in your baby’s health and the progression of your pregnancy. Prior to pregnancy, discuss your family’s health history as well as your partner’s with your provider. This allows them to identify any genetic risk factors.

Some couples and individuals may be referred to a genetic specialist for reasons such as the following:

A family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, chromosomal disorder, or cancer

Two or more pregnancy losses or a stillbirth

Having given birth to a child with a genetic condition, birth defect, or intellectual disability

These risk factors do not guarantee that your baby will develop a health condition or that you will have a complicated pregnancy. Genetic testing can determine the likelihood of passing on a genetic issue to a child. A genetic specialist can help you understand your options for testing.

5. Prioritize your partner’s health as well

Preconception health concerns both parents. Male partners should also take steps to become as healthy as possible, which will improve their own reproductive health and fertility. This includes limiting their alcohol intake, quitting smoking or using harmful substances, and eating a healthy diet. (These lifestyle factors have been linked to issues with sperm production.)

Other important steps for male partners to take before trying to conceive include getting screened for STIs and consulting with a provider about family health history and medication use.

Alto Pharmacy can support you in preparing for a healthy pregnancy, however that looks for you. From delivering prenatal vitamins straight to your doorstep, supporting you in managing a chronic condition, or helping you navigate fertility treatment, we make it as simple as possible to focus on your health.

We offer free, same-day delivery and in-app medication management tools like reminders and auto refills. Additionally, our pharmacists are available to answer any questions you may have about medications or side effects.

Allergies, the immune system’s response to foreign substances, can take numerous forms, from hay fever and allergic asthma to food allergies, medication allergies, and more. For those with allergic contact dermatitis — also referred to as allergic eczema — contact with an allergen causes skin inflammation and a rash.

Common Treatments for Allergic Rashes

While allergic contact dermatitis can be uncomfortable, painful, or itchy, a healthcare provider can help you identify the underlying trigger and manage symptoms. Read on for more about the condition.

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when exposure to an allergen causes a skin rash. The condition can take different forms, and skin may appear red, swollen, blistering, flaky, or scaling. Many people experience pain or itchiness. There may also be a burning or stinging sensation. 

Common allergens that trigger allergic contact dermatitis include:

Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other plants

Certain metals used to make jewelry such as nickel

Certain medications including antibiotics

Preservatives used in cosmetic products and household products

Symptoms typically take 24-48 hours to develop, though they may appear within minutes or hours of exposure in some cases. You may be more susceptible to the condition if you have sensitive skin or chronic skin issues that aren’t caused by allergies.

It takes time to develop an allergy, and you likely will not have a reaction to an allergen after a single exposure. Many people become more sensitive to an allergen with each subsequent exposure.

If you develop contact dermatitis several times and are unsure of the trigger, keep a diary of potential factors to identify the allergen.

In rare cases, allergic contact dermatitis overlaps with anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction that swells the airways and blocks breathing. This reaction may occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen.

The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

Respiratory symptoms including wheezing and a persistent cough

In addition, anaphylaxis is frequently accompanied by hypotension, or low blood pressure, defined as blood pressure under 90/60 mm/Hg or a 30% reduction from your baseline blood pressure.

Anaphylaxis must be treated with epinephrine, a hormone and medication used in emergency treatment. Many people with severe allergies carry injectable epinephrine in a pen. If you experience anaphylaxis and do not have epinephrine, go to an emergency room as soon as possible. If you do not have someone to accompany you to the emergency room, call 911 first.

Allergic contact dermatitis vs irritant contact dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is one of two main types of contact dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis is a rash that develops quickly in response to a chemical substance, or irritant, including harsh soaps and detergents, hair dyes, certain household products, and acids. 

Symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis are similar to those of allergic contact dermatitis, however the reaction forms more quickly and is often more painful than itchy.

If it is possible to avoid an allergen or irritant, you may be able to identify the trigger of your contact dermatitis and prevent a reaction. If this is not possible, additional steps are often required for an official diagnosis.

If your doctor believes that you may have allergic contact dermatitis, patch testing may be used to identify the underlying cause. During a patch test, you’ll wear adhesive patches containing common allergens known to trigger reactions. Your provider will check your skin after 48 hours and again after an additional 48-96 hours to check for a reaction.

If your doctor is unable to confirm a diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis after patch testing, they may order a biopsy — a procedure that removes a small sample of your skin — to determine if another condition is responsible for symptoms.

There is not a similar test to diagnose irritant contact dermatitis, but a doctor may be able to identify the triggering irritant based on the chemicals you regularly come into contact with.

Read When to See a Healthcare Specialist for Allergy Treatment

A variety of treatment options may be used to help you manage allergic or irritant contact dermatitis. Individual treatment plans depend on the severity of symptoms.

As a first step, wash irritated skin with mild soap and water after exposure to an allergen to remove traces of it. In mild cases, this may be sufficient to address symptoms.

If symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Moisturizing creams to hydrate and repair irritated skin

Over-the-counter corticosteroid-based creams to ease itching and inflammation

Colloidal oatmeal-based products to ease itching and inflammation

Calamine lotion to ease itching and discomfort

Over-the-counter oral antihistamines such as Benadryl® or Zyrtec®

Oral steroids such as prednisone to relieve symptoms that don’t respond to over-the-counter medication

Additional immunosuppressive medications including JAK inhibitors — which block immune responses to prevent inflammation — and off-label systemic medications including cyclosporine and methotrexate may be used in severe cases that require multiple rounds of oral steroids.

With effective treatment, symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis are typically resolved within two to three weeks. However, to prevent future reactions, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms so that you can avoid it.

Managing allergic rashes is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about treatment, and we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

Here’s what to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of JIA.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects children and adolescents age 16 and under. It may cause joint pain and inflammation anywhere in the body, but most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.

If untreated, JIA can lead to health complications, including:

Eye health issues such as cataracts or glaucoma, as JIA can cause inflammation in the eyes

More rarely, issues with the kidneys, heart, or endocrine system

The prognosis of JIA varies by individual. About 50% of children and adolescents with the condition fully recover while others continue to experience arthritis symptoms in adulthood. 

All forms of arthritis including JIA fall under the umbrella of autoimmune diseases. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. With arthritis, the immune system acts on the lining of your joints.

The causes of JIA aren’t fully known (idiopathic means unknown). Genetics likely play a component. Some evidence suggests that some children have a gene that leads to the development of JIA when activated by external factors such as a virus or bacteria.

Symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Symptoms of JIA can vary from one child to another. Some individuals experience flare-ups, or periods when symptoms intensify, while others have a more chronic experience of the condition.

Pain and inflammation in the joints, most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. (For many, this symptom frequently occurs in the morning or after sleeping.)

The process of diagnosing JIA often involves several steps, as symptoms may resemble those of other conditions.

A physical exam is typically the starting point, after which a doctor may recommend one or more of the following blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of JIA: 

Antibody tests such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, which measures blood levels of antibodies linked to rheumatic disease

Tests that check for levels of red and white blood cells and platelets - lower levels of red and white blood cells may be indicative of JIA

An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test, which examines how quickly your red blood cells sink to the bottom of a test tube - higher rates of settlement may indicate inflammation

A c-reactive protein (CRP) test, which identifies blood levels of CRP, an inflammation-linked protein produced in your liver

A creatinine test, which checks for kidney disease

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test, which checks for rheumatoid factor, an antibody found in about 80% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and bone scans may also be used to support a JIA diagnosis.

Treatment for JIA encompasses medications, lifestyle changes, and physical and occupational therapy, with the goal of reducing symptoms and supporting an active life.

Individual treatment plans depend on a child’s symptoms, age, and overall health history.

The following types of medications may be included in a JIA treatment plan:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation during flare-ups. While these medications are available over the counter, your child may need a prescription for a higher dose.

Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may also be used to reduce inflammation in children with JIA.

Blog

Medication Shortages, Explained

What to Know About Pneumonia

How to Have the Healthiest Pregnancy Possible

Common Treatments for Allergic Rashes

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks

Psoriasis, Explained

Understanding the Different Types of Asthma

What is an autoimmune disease?

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

How Anticoagulants Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

A Guide to Year-Round Wellness

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