Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in the joints and can also affect internal organs. Understanding the prognosis and life expectancy related to RA is essential for patients and their families.
Key facts about rheumatoid arthritis include that it is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. This leads to inflammation, pain, swelling, stiffness, and potentially joint deformity. Symptoms may vary in severity and can come and go, with periods of flares and remission. It’s important to note that RA itself does not directly cause death. However, the complications arising from an aggressive course of the disease, such as heart disease, lung scarring, and blood cancers, can be life-threatening and potentially lower life expectancy.
Heart disease, often linked to chronic inflammation, is a significant concern for RA patients and the leading cause of death among them. Early and aggressive treatment of RA may help reduce the risk of heart disease. In terms of joint impact, RA can cause deformities in the fingers and other joints, making movement difficult.
Medical News Today, RheumatoidArthritis.org, Medical News Today, Healthline, Mayo Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center provide further insights into the impact of RA on life expectancy.
