Smoking is a habit that is detrimental to our overall health. It is widely known that smoking can cause lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and many other health problems.

However, many people do not realize that smoking can also increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of mobility. It is a chronic condition that can lead to disability if left untreated.

Unlike other types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by aging or wear and tear on the joints. Rather, it is caused by a malfunctioning immune system that attacks the body’s own tissues, including the joints.

How does Smoking Contribute to the Development of RA?

Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, studies have found that smokers are two times more likely to develop RA than non-smokers.

The exact reason for this is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that smoking contributes to the development of RA in several ways.

First, smoking causes inflammation in the body. This inflammation can lead to damage of the joints and other tissues, which can trigger the immune system to attack these tissues.

Secondly, smoking can cause changes in the immune system that make it more likely to attack the body’s own tissues. Studies have found that smoking can increase the levels of certain antibodies that are associated with RA, making it more likely for the immune system to attack the joints.

Lastly, smoking can also contribute to the progression of RA. Studies have found that smokers with RA have more severe symptoms and joint damage than non-smokers with RA.

This is likely due to the fact that smoking can accelerate the destruction of cartilage and bone in the joints.

How Can Quitting Smoking Reduce the Risk of RA?

If you smoke, quitting can greatly reduce your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, one study found that people who quit smoking for at least 10 years had the same risk of developing RA as people who had never smoked.

Quitting smoking can also help reduce the progression of RA if you already have it. Studies have found that people with RA who quit smoking have less joint damage and better outcomes than those who continue to smoke.

Tips for Quitting Smoking

Quitting smoking can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips to help you quit:.

Talk to your doctor: Your doctor can help you create a quit plan that works for you. They can also prescribe medications or recommend other methods to help you quit.
Set a quit date: Choose a date to quit smoking and stick to it. Make a plan for how you will deal with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Get support: Tell your friends, family, and coworkers that you are quitting smoking and ask for their support. Consider joining a support group or using a quit smoking app.
Avoid triggers: Identify the situations or activities that trigger your urge to smoke and avoid them if possible. For example, if you usually smoke after a meal, try taking a walk instead.
Stay busy: Keep your hands and mind busy to distract yourself from the urge to smoke. Try exercising, reading, or doing a puzzle.

Conclusion

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Not only can it reduce your risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, and other health problems, but it can also reduce your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

If you are a smoker, quitting can be challenging, but it is worth it. Talk to your doctor and get support to help you quit smoking for good.