Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more than just a joint condition; it significantly impacts heart health as well. The inflammation common in RA not only affects joints but can also extend to the heart, increasing the risk of various heart diseases. This link necessitates heightened awareness and specific treatment strategies to protect heart health in RA patients.
One of the key strategies in managing RA and its heart-related risks is the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate or biologics. These medications help control RA inflammation, subsequently reducing the risks of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. Additionally, addressing fever in rheumatic heart disease through antibiotic treatments is crucial for preventing further complications.
Patients with RA face an elevated risk of several heart conditions, including pericardial and myocardial disease, coronary artery disease, and heart rhythm disturbances. Heart failure is also a common concern, with inflammation playing a pivotal role in its development. The complex relationship between RA and heart disease requires a multifaceted treatment approach, combining joint care and cardiovascular protection.
Surgical interventions, such as synovectomy, can alleviate joint pain and improve functionality in RA patients. However, these treatments must be coupled with cardiovascular care to address the comprehensive needs of RA patients. Recent debates have focused on the use of anti-TNF agents in RA patients with cardiovascular disease, considering the observed increased mortality in non-RA patients with heart failure treated with these drugs.
The intersection of rheumatic and heart diseases presents a unique opportunity to understand how inflammation accelerates heart disease. This “natural experiment” offers insights into the underlying mechanisms connecting these two health issues. In this context, biosimilars have emerged as a significant treatment option for RA, with numerous approvals by regulatory bodies like the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the United States FDA.
For more detailed information on these topics, readers are encouraged to visit Stanford Health Care, Arthritis Foundation, UpToDate, and Mayo Clinic for further reading and resources.
