Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune disease that mainly affects the joints. In older adults, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can show symptoms in surprising ways, which can make diagnosis more difficult. Common symptoms like joint pain, swelling, and stiffness are well known, but there are other symptoms that may go overlooked. Spotting these less common signs early can help seniors get quicker and better treatment, improving their quality of life. The good news is that elder care can help watch for these symptoms and encourage seniors to talk to their medical team.

Ongoing Tiredness and Lack of Energy

Chronic fatigue may be overlooked as a sign of rheumatoid arthritis because feeling tired is often considered a “normal” part of aging or attached to other health issues. However, if seniors feel tired all the time without a clear reason along with feeling weak, it might be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. The reason for feeling tired is due to inflammation that accompanies RA.

Quick Weight Loss

Unplanned weight loss in older adults can be related to a variety of health problems, including rheumatoid arthritis. As mentioned above, the disease can cause inflammation, which speeds up metabolism and reduces hunger, resulting in weight loss. If seniors are losing weight without a known cause, elder care can encourage them to talk with their medical team about a possible connection to inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet

RA can cause nerve compression, leading to feelings of tingling, numbness, or burning in the extremities. This symptom, called peripheral neuropathy, can be confused with other diseases like diabetes or carpal tunnel syndrome. Seniors with these symptoms should see a doctor to find out what is causing them.

Eye Issues

Rheumatoid arthritis not only impacts the joints but can also lead to inflammation in other areas of the body, like the eyes. Seniors with RA might experience dry eyes, swelling, pain, or blurred vision. Additionally, the condition can cause problems like scleritis, leading to strong eye pain and possibly losing vision if not addressed.

Trouble Breathing or Chest Discomfort

RA can cause inflammation in the lungs or around the heart, which can result in issues with breathing, a persistent cough, or chest pain. Lung problems associated with the condition include interstitial lung disease or pleurisy, which can be dangerous and need quick medical care.

Strange Skin Signs

Some seniors with rheumatoid arthritis may experience problems like rashes, sores, or small lumps under the skin. These symptoms are caused by inflammation that affects blood vessels and organs outside of the joints. If a senior sees any strange changes in their skin, they should talk to their healthcare team.

Sleep Problems

Pain and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis can make it hard for seniors to sleep well. Waking up often at night, having trouble staying asleep, or feeling more pain at night could be linked to the condition and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Joint pain and stiffness are common signs of rheumatoid arthritis, but those aren’t the only signs to look for, especially in older adults. Elder care can help monitor for ongoing tiredness, weight loss, nervous system issues, eye problems, lung difficulties, skin changes, and trouble sleeping, encouraging seniors to talk with their medical team for early diagnosis and treatment.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in Folsom, CA, please contact the caring staff at Aging Assistant today at (916) 897-4752

James Ozsvath

Aging Assistant is a locally owned and operated in-home senior care provider, we are dedicated to helping our clients to remain in the home they love for as long as they can. Our caregiving staff are all warm and compassionate professionals, experienced in taking care of seniors in various stages of health. We handle a wide range of services, such as help with shopping, housekeeping, attending doctor’s appointments, and preparing meals. We also provide our clients with limited mobility or more intensive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia with the higher level of personal care that they require. Call our team now if you need help with a loved one's care.

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