Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects approximately 1.3 million people in the United States. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.

However, RA is not just limited to the joints; it can also affect other parts of the body including the heart. In fact, research has shown that people with RA are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

RA is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, including the joints. It can cause damage to the joints, cartilage, and bones.

RA is a chronic condition that can cause severe pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the hands, feet, and wrists. However, it can also affect other organs in the body including the lungs, eyes, and heart.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a broad term that encompasses a range of conditions that affect the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. It is a leading cause of death worldwide.

Heart disease occurs when there is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

How are Rheumatoid Arthritis and Heart Disease Connected?

Research has shown that people with RA are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. There are several factors that contribute to this increased risk, including:.

Inflammation

RA is characterized by inflammation, which can damage the lining of the blood vessels. This damage can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Autoimmune Process

In RA, the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, including the cells that line the blood vessels. This can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Atherosclerosis can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Medications

Some medications used to treat RA, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, can increase the risk of heart disease.

NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure, while corticosteroids can increase blood sugar levels and cholesterol.

Physical Inactivity

People with RA may have difficulty exercising due to joint pain and stiffness. Physical inactivity can increase the risk of heart disease.

How to Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease in People with RA

There are several steps that people with RA can take to reduce their risk of heart disease:.

Exercise

Although it can be difficult for people with RA to exercise, regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Aerobic exercise, such as walking or biking, can help improve cardiovascular health.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help reduce the risk of heart disease. It can also help people with RA maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce stress on the joints.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. People with RA who smoke should consider quitting.

Manage RA Symptoms

Managing RA symptoms, including inflammation, is important for reducing the risk of heart disease. Medications that reduce inflammation can help lower the risk of heart disease in people with RA.

Conclusion

People with RA are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. Several factors contribute to this risk, including inflammation, the autoimmune process, medications, and physical inactivity.

By taking steps to reduce the risk of heart disease, including exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and managing RA symptoms, people with RA can improve their overall health and reduce their risk of heart disease.