Health Tip: Coping With Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

(HealthDay News) -- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is thought to be an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The painful condition affects children and teens aged 15 and younger.

The academy offers these coping suggestions for children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis:

• Soothe painful joints with a warm shower, a hot pack or sleeping in a warm bed.
• Exercises, including stretches and activities that help improve range-of-motion, can help ease stiffness.
• Take any medication at the same time each day. To help your child remember, associate it with another activity, such as eating a meal.
• Get regular exercise. Associate this with a favorite activity, such as watching TV.