Understanding the Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Heart Disease

Rheumatic heart disease, a serious condition often linked to untreated strep throat or scarlet fever, primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 15. This inflammatory disease is caused by streptococcus bacteria and can lead to serious complications if not adequately treated. A detailed overview of this condition is available on the Johns Hopkins Medicine website.

In adults, there is a notable connection between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and heart disease. RA, a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, significantly increases the risk of heart disease. This heightened risk is attributed to common factors such as chronic inflammation and the effects of medications used to treat RA. People with RA are twice as likely to experience a heart attack compared to those without the condition. Gout, another form of inflammatory arthritis, is also associated with heart-related issues, including abnormal heart rhythms and atrial fibrillation, which is a significant cause of strokes. More information on this topic can be found on the Medical News Today website and the Arthritis Foundation website.

Heart disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients can take various forms, including pericardial and myocardial disease, coronary artery disease, and disturbances in heart rhythm. These conditions are more common in RA patients than in the general population, contributing to an increased risk of death. An in-depth overview of heart disease in rheumatoid arthritis is available on the UpToDate website.

Rheumatic diseases and heart disease share common inflammatory underpinnings. The high levels of inflammation in rheumatic diseases offer insight into how inflammation accelerates heart disease. This connection is further explained in a detailed study available on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website.

Diagnosing rheumatic heart disease often involves checking for a recent strep infection through a throat culture or blood test. Patients may also exhibit a murmur or rub, detectable during a routine physical exam.

In summary, the link between rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease is significant, with RA acting as a risk factor for various heart conditions. Understanding this connection is crucial for effective management and treatment of both RA and heart disease.