In order to better control and live with the familial Mediterranean fever, which usually appears for the first time during childhood, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician, because although the disease has no cure, it can be controlled with treatment that must be done during lifetime so that the crises of the disease are rare.
Thus, in case of suspected family Mediterranean fever, when the child has fever, pain in the belly, chest and joints, it is important to have blood tests to identify the mutation that causes the disease and confirm the diagnosis, especially if there are cases of the disease in the family.
Treatment to relieve symptoms, reduce suffering and guarantee a normal life should be started as soon as possible and can be done at home using the medications prescribed by the doctor. However, if symptoms worsen and shortness of breath or fainting occurs during a crisis, it is recommended to go to the emergency room immediately.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for familial Mediterranean fever, which is a hereditary inflammatory disease in which the body cannot control or stop any inflammation, involves the use of remedies such as:
- Colchicine: reduces inflammation of the body because it prevents cell multiplication and, therefore, decreases the intensity of symptoms, however, it can produce side effects such as diarrhea, weakness and tingling in the hands and feet; Anti-inflammatories, such as Anakinra or Rilonacept: are used mainly in cases where it is not possible to control symptoms with colchicine.
This type of treatment, although it does not cure the disease, helps to relieve symptoms and prevent their onset and, therefore, should be done throughout life, during crises, under medical guidance.
What are the symptoms
Symptoms of familial Mediterranean fever usually appear for the first time during childhood and, even when the disease is controlled with medication, crises can occur, which include:
- Fever above 38ºC; Pain in the belly and chest; Joint pain; Swollen joints; Constipation alternating with diarrhea; Muscle pain; Redness in the legs.
Generally, crises of familial Mediterranean fever last between 1 and 3 days, although they may not appear for several months.
In addition, since familial Mediterranean fever is a hereditary disease that occurs more frequently in Mediterranean families, such as Italians, Arabs or Turks, it is recommended to do genetic counseling before becoming pregnant.
