There are over 1,000 diseases that the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) classifies as uncommon. Ft. Lauderdale, FL, senior care professionals discuss 4 rare medical conditions the elderly are at risk of developing.
1. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
MSA is a rare degenerative neurological disease typically affecting seniors over the age of 60. It is often associated with Parkinson’s disease because it has similar symptoms, such as tremors and impaired posture. There is no cure for MSA. However, when it is caught early on, the symptoms can be controlled. A doctor will generally prescribe medication to regulate the blood pressure of a senior who has this rare disease.
2. Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH)
Seniors with this rare medical condition have bone spurs that develop along the spine and joints. This causes symptoms similar to arthritis. Seniors with DISH generally find it challenging to move, have trouble with their posture, and experience pain along the spine and hips. Osteoporosis and arthritis medication can be taken to prevent this rare condition.
3. Bullous Pemphigoid
This rare skin condition causes large blisters filled with fluid to develop in certain areas of the body, including the upper thighs, lower abdomen, and near the armpits. Bullous pemphigoid typically affects seniors over the age of 60. To prevent this skin disease, your loved one will need to limit exposure to the sun and wear protective clothing and sunscreen.
4. Binswanger’s Disease
The disease occurs due to widespread damage in the deep layers of white matter in a senior’s brain. This leads to thickening and narrowing of arteries, which causes the blood supply to decrease and brain tissues to die. To control the symptoms associated with Binswanger’s disease, your loved one should have regular CT scans or magnetic resonance imaging to catch the condition in its early stages. Healthy lifestyle choices can also slow down the progression of this rare disorder.
If your senior loved has a medical condition and requires assistance with daily tasks around the house, call Home Care Assistance. We offer high-quality respite and live-in care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia care. Ft. Lauderdale families can call (954) 909-0370 to speak with a Care Manager who can create a customized care plan for their senior loved ones.