I was reading on the Fisher stages about the rigidity that sets in in stage 7. However, dh is mid stage 5....
The other day I held his hand and I noticed it was SO STIFF, and his wrist seemed tensed up and could not bend. It was almost like he was forcing it, but after reading I see that rigidity is something that happens.
Just curious if any of you have noticed this, in the "earlier" stages.
For some reason, I found it very upsetting. (side note) he is now on a bigger dose of aricept, starting 3 days ago..
It could be related to the Aricept, so watch carefully to see if you see benefits. My husband has Lewy Body Dementia, and the Parkinson's symptoms make him very stiff. The Aricept helps the cognitive issues but makes the physical symptoms worse. The Parkinson's medication, Sinemet, helps the physical symptoms but can cause cognitive problems and/or hallucinations. It is a balancing act.
For about 3 years DH has had his hands in a tight fist with thumbs on the inside. Tight, not relaxed like you would normally have your hands. He can still open his hands, but when not in use they are rigid. Some times when I am checking his blood I have to hold his hand open.
thanks pamsc....hmmm...yes maybe the aricept. Now this was happening before we upped his dose.
poor sweet guy. When I reach when I am driving, for a moment!, to hold his hand, there are never any squeezes coming back, or "I love yous", unless I prompt him. That rigid hand thing feels weird, I will ask his doctor when we go for his 6 month appt.