It is common for children to have a high fever during their childhood, but a prolonged high fever in a child could signal more than just a common illness. Kawasaki disease, while being rare, is one of the leading causes of heart diseases in children, which is often overlooked by many parents. This disease is mostly common among Asian ethnic groups.
In fact, a study recorded that “the highest incidence rates are observed in Japan, with approximately 308 cases per 100,000 children under five years old, followed by South Korea at 199.7 and Taiwan at 82.8.” Kawasaki disease primarily affects children under 5, which causes inflammation in the blood vessels throughout the body, particularly affecting the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Process of Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease is believed by scientists to be caused by an unusual immune response, where the body’s defense system mistakenly attacks its own blood vessels. Although the exact cause is unknown, some scientists think that a virus, bacteria, or certain environmental triggers might have set off this response. This is mostly the case in children who have a genetic predisposition.
The disease first targets the cell lining in the blood vessels. As the immune system mistakenly attacks these cells, swelling occurs. Because of the swelling, the blood vessels become narrow and damaged. The most dangerous part of Kawasaki disease, though, is its effects on the coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to the heart muscles, and if the inflammation is serious or lasts for too long, it can cause a weakening or a bulging in the artery wall. This condition is known as an aneurysm.
However, the immune system doesn’t stop at the heart. It spreads, which causes other parts of the body to swell as well. Over time, the damaged artery may have reduced blood flow to the heart, which causes permanent heart complications.
Symptoms of Kawasaki Disease
- High fever
- Red eyes
- Red swollen tongue, often known as “strawberry tongue”
- Red and cracked lips
- Swollen hands and feet
- Skin rashes
- Swollen lymph nodes
What Causes Kawasaki Disease?
Earlier in this article, it was mentioned that Kawasaki disease isn’t fully understood. Scientists say it has an unknown cause. However, there are certain things that might trigger Kawasaki disease in kids.
Infections: If a child catches either a virus or a bacteria, their immune system could become overactive, which attacks their own blood vessels as if they were infected. However, no single virus or bacteria has been directly linked to Kawasaki disease yet, but infections are suspected to be one of the possible triggers.
Environmental triggers: There are patterns in which and where Kawasaki disease occurs, which makes experts believe that something in the environment could play a part. For example, Kawasaki disease is seen more often in winter and spring, and in certain regions. This could mean that things like weather changes, air quality, or even exposure to certain allergens can contribute to its development in children who are sensitive.
Genetic predisposition: It is possible for children to be born with genes that make them more likely to develop Kawasaki disease. That is why it is more common in some groups like children of Japanese and Asian descent. If a child has a genetic tendency towards this disease, it means that they are more likely to get it if they encounter certain triggers in the environment.
Conclusion
In summary, Kawasaki disease, although rare, is a serious condition that parents and caregivers should be aware of. While it shares some symptoms with more common childhood illnesses, its prolonged fever and unique symptoms; like “strawberry tongue” and red, cracked lips; can serve as warning signs.
