There are approximately 1.6 million people throughout the United States who are living with inflammatory bowel disease. Of these people, approximately 907,000 people have a condition known as ulcerative colitis. This is more common than Crohn’s disease and is more common in adults than children. Though it is generally diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35, people can and do develop this condition, or are diagnosed with it, later in life. As a family caregiver it is important to be able to recognize the potential symptoms of this condition so that you can ensure that your aging loved one gets the care and support that they need to manage their health effectively.
Some of the potential symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:
- Diarrhea.
- Abdominal pain.
- Cramping.
- Rectal pain or bleeding.
- Urgency.
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Unintended weight loss.
- Difficulty using the bathroom even when they feel as though they need to go urgently.
It is important to remember that you know your aging parent best. If you notice any new symptoms or changes in their symptoms that are concerning to you, do not hesitate to get in touch with their doctor. They can then ensure that your parent gets not only an accurate diagnosis, but gets on a course of treatment and management that is right for them.
Starting elderly care can be a fantastic choice for your aging parent and for you as their family caregiver. An elderly home care services provider can be with your parent on a fully customized schedule to ensure they always have access to the care that they need to manage their individual challenges and limitations in the way that is right for them. Through a set of highly personalized services, this elderly care provider can help your parent stay healthy, safe, and comfortable, and maintain a lifestyle that is as independent and fulfilling as possible as they age in place. As a family caregiver it can be extremely reassuring to know that your parent has all of the care that they need both when you are with them and when you are not. This eases your stress and allows you to focus your time, energy, and efforts in the ways that are most meaningful and efficient. Having this care can be especially beneficial if you are in the sandwich generation caring for both your parent and your children, or if you live at a distance and are not able to be with your parent as often as you would like to be.
If you or an aging loved one needs elderly care in Davis, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Sources
https://crohnsdisease.com/ulcerative-colitis/ulcerative-colitis-statistics/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ulcerative-colitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353326
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