Inflammatory joint disease is a catch-all term for inflammatory conditions that affect the joints. Arthritis is the one that most people know. There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis. Three of them are some of the most common inflammatory joint diseases. They include ankylosing spondylitis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Home Care in Massapequa NY: Common Inflammatory Joint Diseases
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) occurs when inflammation causes chronic pain in the vertebrae. Pain builds in the spine and can be quite severe. In some cases, it can cause bone growth in the vertebrae leading the spine to fuse and stop being flexible. The pain may extend into the shoulders, hips, hands, and feet.
If your parent is diagnosed with AS, diet and physical therapy are often the first treatments to try. Hot and cold packs applied to the area may help. Medications that help relieve pain and inflammation may also be used to manage the pain and inflammation.
Another thing doctors may ask your mom or dad to try is a diet that focuses heavily on whole grains and vegetables. Low-sugar, low-fat, and low-salt diets are often recommended. Your mom or dad should also drink plenty of water each day and avoid alcoholic beverages as much as possible.
What is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints. The big toe is usually the key location for the pain and inflammation. The pain can be so intense that wearing a shoe or sock is impossible.
Certain foods are believed to trigger gout. Red meats, organ meats, shellfish, and alcohol are some of the foods to avoid. Pain medications like Advil will help manage the pain. Diet is one of the best ways to eliminate flare-ups, however.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
With rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system sees tissue in the joints as an intruder and launches an attack. This damages the lining of the joints causing swelling and pain. It can lead to bone loss and joints may become deformed and cause fingers to twist up and lose flexibility.
There is no cure, but some medications can help manage symptoms. NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium are commonly used to ease the pain and inflammation.
If the pain of an inflammatory joint condition is keeping your parent from daily care routines, make sure supportive care is available. Home care aides assist with medication reminders, appointment scheduling, and meal preparation.
If you or an aging family member are considering professional home care in Massapequa, NY, please call the caring staff at A Gentle Touch Senior Home and Health Care at 631-647-7622 today.