Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more complicated than a lot of arthritis types.  Arthritis itself is about inflammation of the joints like knees and fingers.  However, RA doesn’t just affect the joints.

What RA does is attack the lining of the joints.  This can do damage to the bone itself. Too, rather than just inflaming the joints, RA can affect many more areas of the body including the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, blood vessels, bone marrow, and even the skin.

RA is caused by the immune system of the body actually attacking the area around the joints which can ultimately affect the ligaments and bone.  In some cases, the bone can be deformed, causing pain and loss of function.  This could result in a lack of mobility or increased need for assistance such as a home care professional for the senior.

Further, RA can lead to other problems such as:

• Osteoporosis which weakens the bone
• Infections due to weakened immune system with tuberculosis being considered one of the more common infections experienced by seniors with RA
• Heart problems including an increased risk of blocked arteries
• Lung problems such as a shortness of breath
• Blood cancers primarily affecting the lymph centers
• Depression due to pain and lack of mobility

Women, more than men, tend to be susceptible to RA. Other factors which may increase the risk of getting RA include obesity, genetics, and exposure to asbestos.

Low impact exercise along with periods of rest may actually help with the fatigue and painful symptoms of RA.  However, the senior should be cautious about resting too long as stiffness tends to occur after prolonged periods of rest.  This is often why the pain is worst in the morning after sleep.

Exercise is also good to help with mood and depression. Types of exercises that are helpful include walking and swimming as well as stretching.  Yoga is often recommended as a low impact exercise for RA sufferers.

As many people experience RA in the hands and fingers, it helps to avoid clothing that requires buttons. Also, putting hands in warm or cool water may help ease the pain.

Getting good rest helps with emotional issue around RA as well as helps the body overall.  If you are experiencing problems sleeping, consider covering windows to keep the room dark and play soft music to try and drown out any external noise.  Also consider speaking with your medical or home care professional for additional suggestions on how to get a better night’s sleep.

If you or a family member are in need of home care in Tamarac, FL, call the caring professionals at Star Multi Care today at (954) 870-4770. Providing service in Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Weston, Southwest Ranches, Pembroke Pines, Cooper City, Lighthouse Point, and Wilton Manors.

Resources:

http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/rheumatoid-arthritis-basics#1

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/expert-answers/rheumatoid-arthritis-and-fatigue/faq-20139364

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Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

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