Swelling (inflammation) of the walls of medium-sized arteries throughout the body is a symptom of Kawasaki illness. It is primarily a problem for youngsters. The coronary arteries, which feed blood to the heart muscle, are commonly affected by inflammation.
Because it affects glands that expand during an infection (lymph nodes), skin, and mucous membranes inside the mouth, nose, and throat, Kawasaki illness is also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of Kawasaki disease usually occur in stages.
The following are signs and symptoms :
- A fever that lasts longer than three days and is higher than 102.2 F (39 C).
- Eyes that are extremely red but do not have a thick discharge
- A rash that covers the majority of the body as well as the genital area.
- Lips that are red, dry, and cracked, as well as a tongue that is exceedingly red and swollen
- The skin on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet is swollen and red.
- Lymph nodes are swollen in the neck and maybe elsewhere
- Irritability
Unless complications emerge, signs and symptoms gradually go away in the third phase of the disease. It could take up to eight weeks for energy levels to return to normal.
Causes
Although no one understands what causes Kawasaki disease, doctors believe it is not transmitted from person to person. Other theories link the disease to bacteria, viruses, or other environmental factors, but none of them has been proven. Certain genes may increase your child's risk of developing Kawasaki disease.
Also read 6 early warning indicators of thyroid
Diagnosis
No test can be used to diagnose Kawasaki disease. The process of diagnosis includes ruling out other diseases that have similar signs and symptoms, such as:
- Scarlet fever is a streptococcal infection that causes fever, rash, chills, and a Sore throat.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a mucous membrane condition that affects children with rheumatoid arthritis.
To aid in the diagnosis, the doctor will perform a physical examination and request blood and urine tests. The following tests may be performed:
Tests on the blood. Blood tests are used to rule out other disorders and to examine the blood cell count of your child. Kawasaki disease is characterized by a high white blood cell count, as well as anemia and inflammation.
To diagnose Kawasaki disease, doctors may look for a chemical called B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), which is released when the heart is stressed. More research is needed, however, to corroborate this finding.
Electrocardiogram. The electrical impulses of your child's heartbeat are measured using electrodes placed on the skin. Heart rhythm abnormalities can be caused by Kawasaki disease.
Echocardiogram. This test uses ultrasound images to determine how well the heart is performing and can aid in the detection of problems.
Treatment
Your kid's doctor will want to start treatment for Kawasaki disease as soon as possible, especially while your child is still feverish, to minimize the chance of complications. The initial treatment aims to reduce heat and inflammation while also preventing cardiac damage.
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