What Are the Warning Signs of Arthritis?

It's vital that you and your senior learn about the warning signs of arthritis. It can help her to feel better in the event of a flare-up or it can even help you to get a diagnosis for her more quickly.

Joint Pain that Lasts Longer than a Few Days

Sometimes joints just hurt, whether it's an injury or overuse. Joint pain itself doesn't always mean that someone is dealing with arthritis. But if that pain lasts longer than a day or two, there might be more to the situation than an overused appendage. Make a note of how long your senior has been experiencing pain in that area so you can get to the bottom of the issue.

Stiffness and Swelling in Joints

Another sign that could be arthritis or simply overuse is a little bit of stiffness or swelling in the joint. The key here is the same as it is with pain. If the stiffness or swelling last for longer than a day or so, your senior may have arthritis. Her doctor can give you an accurate diagnosis.

Joints Are Tender to the Touch

When your senior is experiencing a flare with arthritis, she's likely to experience tenderness when she or someone else touches her affected joints. Unless your elderly family member has sustained an injury, joint tenderness, especially just due to a light touch, is most likely to do with arthritis.

Joints Are Warmer than Usual or Visibly Red

Severe swelling may be accompanied by a warm feeling around the joint area. Your senior's skin may also appear redder than usual in the same area. This can be disconcerting because it's so different from how her joints may normally feel or look. 

Your Senior Has Trouble Using the Joint

Some or all of these symptoms can make it difficult for your elderly family member to even use the affected joint. She may find that she's lost grip strength in her hand or the ability to raise her arm above a certain point depending on where the arthritis is affecting her. Definitely speak to her doctor about an inability to use a particular joint so you can find a solution.

During flare-ups, or times that your senior is experiencing more pain and difficulty due to arthritis, it can help to have other people on hand to help. Experienced elderly care providers can even show your senior how to handle certain activities in a less painful manner.

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING IN-HOME ELDERLY CARE IN LINCOLN PARK, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.