Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. It affects approximately 1.5 million people in the United States, and it is more common in women than men.

However, RA is not just a disease that affects the joints. It can also cause a range of other conditions and diseases. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the associated diseases and conditions that may develop as a result of RA.

1. Cardiovascular disease

People with RA have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which is a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.

This is because the inflammation that occurs in the joints of people with RA can also cause inflammation in the blood vessels. This can lead to narrowing or blockages in the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

It is therefore important for people with RA to manage their cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, through regular exercise, healthy diet, and medication if necessary.

2. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle. People with RA are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis, partly because the inflammation that occurs in the joints can also affect the bones.

Furthermore, many of the medications used to treat RA, such as corticosteroids, can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. People with RA should therefore have their bone density checked regularly and take steps to prevent osteoporosis, such as taking calcium and vitamin D supplements and performing weight-bearing exercises.

3. Lung disease

People with RA are at increased risk of developing lung disease, including interstitial lung disease (ILD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

ILD is a group of diseases that cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs, which can lead to difficulty breathing. COPD is a progressive lung disease that causes shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.

It is thought that people with RA have an increased risk of developing lung diseases because the inflammation that occurs in the joints can also cause inflammation in the lungs. People with RA should therefore be vigilant for symptoms of lung disease, such as shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing, and seek prompt medical attention if necessary.

4. Depression and anxiety

People with RA are at increased risk of developing depression and anxiety. This may be partly due to the physical limitations that can occur as a result of the disease, as well as the pain and fatigue that may accompany RA.

Furthermore, the inflammation that occurs in the joints can also affect the brain and nervous system. People with RA should therefore be aware of the signs of depression and anxiety, such as persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or nervousness, and seek help if needed.

5. Sjogren’s syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes dry eyes and dry mouth. It is more common in people with RA than in the general population.

It is thought that the same autoimmune processes that cause RA may also cause Sjogren’s syndrome. People with RA who experience symptoms such as dry eyes or mouth should be evaluated for Sjogren’s syndrome.

6. Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a group of disorders that affect the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. It can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands and feet.

People with RA have an increased risk of developing peripheral neuropathy, possibly because the inflammation that occurs in the joints can also affect the nerves. People with RA who experience symptoms of peripheral neuropathy should seek medical attention.

7. Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of diseases that cause inflammation in the blood vessels. It can affect any part of the body, including the skin, organs, and nervous system.

People with RA have an increased risk of developing vasculitis, possibly because the same autoimmune processes that cause RA may also cause vasculitis. People with RA who experience symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or rash should seek medical attention.

8. Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed or pinched at the wrist.

People with RA are at increased risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, possibly because of the inflammation that occurs in the wrist and hand joints. People with RA who experience symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as numbness or tingling in the hand, should seek medical attention.

9. Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of disorders that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. It includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

People with RA have an increased risk of developing IBD, possibly because the same autoimmune processes that cause RA may also cause inflammation in the digestive tract. People with RA who experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding should seek medical attention.

10. Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system. People with RA have an increased risk of developing lymphoma, possibly because of the long-term inflammation and immune system dysfunction that occurs in the disease.

However, the overall risk of lymphoma in people with RA is still relatively low, and most people with RA never develop lymphoma. People with RA should therefore be aware of the signs of lymphoma, such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, or fatigue, and seek medical attention if necessary.