Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition causes pain, stiffness and inflammation in the joints, and as it progresses, can severely limit mobility.

While the damage is primarily limited to the joints, recent studies have shown that osteoarthritis may be linked to other health problems, including heart disease. This article explores the link between osteoarthritis and heart health, and discusses ways to manage both conditions to improve overall health and quality of life.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage, a flexible tissue that cushions the joints and allows them to move smoothly.

As the condition progresses, the cartilage wears away, causing bone to rub against bone, resulting in pain, stiffness and inflammation. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the knees, hips, and hands. The condition is more common in older adults, but can also occur in younger people due to injury or underlying medical conditions.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a term used to describe several conditions that affect the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmia.

These conditions can affect the heart’s ability to function properly, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity.

The Connection Between Osteoarthritis and Heart Health

Research has shown a link between osteoarthritis and heart health. Studies have found that people with osteoarthritis have a higher risk of developing heart disease, as well as a higher risk of dying from heart disease.

One study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology found that people with osteoarthritis were 23% more likely to develop heart disease than those without the condition, even after adjusting for age, gender, and other risk factors.

There are several ways in which osteoarthritis may contribute to heart disease. One theory is that the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis can lead to stress and depression, which can in turn increase the risk of heart disease.

Another theory is that osteoarthritis may lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can increase the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and other risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, some medications used to treat osteoarthritis, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How to Improve Heart Health with Osteoarthritis

If you have osteoarthritis, it’s important to take steps to improve heart health as well. One of the most important things you can do is exercise regularly.

While it may be difficult to exercise with joint pain, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling can be beneficial for both joints and heart health. Additionally, exercise can help manage weight, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health.

A healthy diet is also important for both osteoarthritis and heart health. Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help manage weight, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of heart disease.

Avoiding foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars can also be beneficial for both conditions.

If you have osteoarthritis, it’s also important to work with your healthcare provider to manage pain and inflammation. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen should be used cautiously, as they can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Your healthcare provider may recommend other medications, such as acetaminophen, or non-pharmacological approaches, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, to manage pain and improve function.

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can severely limit mobility and cause pain and inflammation. While osteoarthritis primarily affects the joints, new research has shown that there may be a link between osteoarthritis and heart health.

People with osteoarthritis have a higher risk of developing heart disease, as well as a higher risk of dying from heart disease. By exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and working with a healthcare provider to manage pain and inflammation, people with osteoarthritis can improve both their joint and heart health.