Every ache and pain affecting joints isn’t necessarily arthritis, although there are possible symptoms that caregivers should look out for when caring for a senior loved one. While joint pain and discomfort is the most frequently reported symptom of what is considered one of the most common conditions affecting seniors, there are other symptoms that could be related to arthritis.
Today, trusted Albuquerque elder care provider, Home Care Assistance, shares arthritis warning signs that shouldn’t be overlooked, especially when a combination are experienced by a senior loved one:
- Increased Fatigue – Increased tiredness is normal following a particularly busy day. When fatigue lingers, however, it’s time to consult a doctor to see what’s behind it. Even if arthritis isn’t the cause, fatigue can be the result of other conditions such as depression.
- Warmth or Redness Around Joints – Swelling isn’t always evident when inflammation occurs. In some cases, minor inflammation results in redness or warmth around joints that becomes painful when pressed.
- Morning Stiffness – Morning stiffness can include a general stiffness that affects muscles and joints throughout the body. While some degree of initial stiffness is considered normal with age, stiffness that lasts or is accompanied by difficulty moving or even physically getting out of bed isn’t normal.
- Joint Stiffness – Joint stiffness isn’t always easy to identify. During the early onset of arthritis, joint stiffness can come and go with no real regularity – with absolutely no symptoms on some days and evident pain on others. Encourage your senior loved one to report any instances of sudden joint stiffness or pain.
- Mild Inflammation – During the early stages of arthritis, inflammation can make some joints appear slightly larger than they should be. This can be hard to spot since mild inflammation can go away just as suddenly as it appears, and affect another joint during the next flare-up. Over time, flare-ups will being to last longer and will involve pain.
- Low-Grade Fever – With rheumatoid arthritis, some seniors may experience a low-grade fever due to the body’s reaction to sudden inflammation around joints. Of course, any type of fever should be carefully monitored.
If you have a loved one that is living with arthritis, ensuring that they have the proper care and support at home can maximize their safety and independence for as long as possible. Learn more about in-home care from Home Care Assistance of Albuquerque. While we are recognized as the Albuquerque live-in home care experts, we also provide flexible hourly care for seniors who need help on an as-needed basis. Request a complimentary, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Care Manager today by calling 505-798-0800.
