Between 2013 and 2015, approximately 54.4 million adults learned they had at least one form of arthritis. Of that number, almost half are 65 or older. Arthritis is a chronic health condition. It’s considered that because there is no cure and it’s something that will affect a person’s life in some way.
What Causes Arthritis?
There are dozens of arthritis types. Osteoarthritis is the most common form and is diagnosed in more than 30 million adults. Where bones meet and form a joint, cartilage acts as a cushion. As that cartilage wears away, the bones may rub together or change. It’s common in the knees, hips, and hands.
Pain and stiffness are common complaints with this form of arthritis. It can impact the patient’s mobility. Osteoarthritis can also make it hard to complete tasks that were once easy to perform. Many times, arthritis pain in the hands can make it hard to chop foods, hold a pencil, or use a utensil.
Rheumatoid arthritis is another form. This type of arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system sees the cells as foreign bodies and triggers an immune response. The attack on the cells in the joints of the wrists, knees, and hands leads to inflammation and pain.
Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can damage the joins leading to deformity. It also messes up balance and mobility. Sometimes, it spreads beyond joints into organs like the heart and lungs.
Can You Cure Arthritis?
While you cannot cure arthritis, there are changes you can make before you’re diagnosed to lower the risk of developing it. Those changes include:
- Exercise regularly.
- Seek medical care if a joint feels warm or is red and swollen.
- Stay at your appropriate weight for your height.
- Stop smoking.
- Use exercises to strengthen the knees if you have a job that requires a lot of squatting and bending.
If you’re diagnosed with arthritis, pain management is essential. NSAID medications like Advil are used to ease the pain. For rheumatoid arthritis, medications that help prevent deformities in the joints may be prescribed.
Exercises that strengthen the muscles can help someone with arthritis remain mobile. A doctor can recommend physical therapy sessions or direct you to the right exercises.
Have Caregivers Help Your Parents at Home
Arthritis may make it hard for senior citizens to complete activities of daily living. Make sure your mom or dad has the support that’s needed to keep up with housework. Caregivers can change sheets, do laundry, and prepare meals. Learn more by calling an agency to discuss the cost of adding regular visits from professional caregivers.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis
If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Huntley, MT, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare Billings today at 406-839-2390.
