Kawasaki disease (KD) is an illness that causes blood vessels to become inflamed, almost always among young children. If left untreated, it can cause a huge emotional toll among parents.
Recently, popular actors Amyra Rosli and Amar Baharin shared a heartbreaking update regarding their second child’s condition. The couple’s youngest daughter, Ayra Aryssa, 2 years old, has been diagnosed with Kawasaki disease.
According to several reports, Ayra started having high fever symptoms before this disease started attacking the surface of her body until it reached her face.
We have also shared about Kawasaki disease previously. The thing is that no one knows much about this disease. It is a serious illness discovered by Japanese paediatrician Tomisaku Kawasaki back in 1967.
Kawasaki Disease Foundation strives to create awareness for this little-known disease through the commemoration of Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day annually on 26 January.
According to the Kawasaki Disease Foundation, it primarily affects young children under the age of five, and is more prevalent among children of Asian and Pacific Island descent. The disease also affects all racial and ethnic groups. The real danger of KD is that apart from the prolonged fever, redness and swelling, it can also affect the child’s heart if not caught in time. The cause is still unknown but it can be cured.
Amar, 37, said his daughter started having a high fever before the symptoms of the disease started to attack the whole body including her face.
“My daughter (Ayra) had a high fever and was taken to the hospital. Her temperature was rising. She was in pain and looked so uncomfortable but she didn’t cry. This disease is not normal and it is very rare.
No one knows what the cause is. The nurses check her blood on a daily basis. We don’t know when she’s going to feel better. She is also going for an electrocardiogram (ECG) test,” Amar told Harian Metro. Amyra, who was filming her latest project on set, had to rush to the hospital after being informed that her daughter’s oxygen level had dropped.
The couple received an outpouring of support on social media. They thanked all of them graciously via Instagram their recent post. Thankfully, upon writing this article, Ayra was finally discharged a few hours ago as we are closely monitoring the couple’s social media updates documenting their daughter’s condition. She is feeling a lot better and we couldn’t be happier for this family.
Dr. Izzar Anwari, winner of ‘Dad Influencer of the Year’ at the third annual Ibuencer Awards recently is also sharing his thoughts and guidance about Kawasaki disease. This charming doctor, who is also a husband and father, highlights on the symptoms and interesting facts of Kawasaki disease through his latest post as per below.
Symptoms of Kawasaki Disease
- High fever (above 39°C) over 5 days period
- Rashes on the surface of body
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Swollen glands (in the neck)
- Red, bloodshot eyes
- Inflammation of the mouth, lips and throat
- Red ‘strawberry’ tongue
Kawasaki Virus Complications & Treatment
This disease attacks a child’s heart and can cause complications in blood vessels, muscles, and heart valves if left for a long time without adequate treatment.
Good news for all parents: Kawasaki disease can be cured! However, don’t delay treatment. Treatment which begins within 10 days from the onset of this disease will greatly reduce the chances of any long-term heart complications.
So, mummies, if your children are experiencing a high fever, do remember to bring them to the doctor immediately.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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