Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not only a joint disease but also a significant risk factor for heart disease. The inflammation caused by RA leads to plaque build-up in arteries, narrowing blood vessels, and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Shared risk factors between RA and heart disease include high blood pressure, which exacerbates the risk.
Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to hardened and blocked arteries and inflammation of the heart’s enclosing sac. RA also increases the risk of lung disease, characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissues, leading to progressive shortness of breath. Furthermore, there is an elevated risk of lymphoma in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
The newly named ‘CKM Syndrome’ encompasses the combined impact of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease, affecting a significant portion of the U.S. population. This naming provides a unified term for these interconnected health issues.
Blood pressure variability has been linked to cognitive decline and vascular stiffness, particularly in older adults. This connection further underlines the importance of monitoring blood pressure in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This not only causes joint inflammation but also increases susceptibility to infections, which can present with fever and other symptoms.
Medications for RA, including steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs, play a crucial role in managing the condition. Chronic inflammation and pain can lead to severe fatigue, affecting daily activities and reducing the range of motion over time, potentially leading to joint deformities and reduced mobility.
RA affects not only the joints but also various other tissues and organs, underscoring the need for comprehensive management of this autoimmune disease.
For more detailed information on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Heart Disease, visit the Arthritis Foundation. To learn about the symptoms and causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis, check out the Mayo Clinic. For insights into the ‘CKM Syndrome’ and its connection to heart disease risk, visit WebMD.
