Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects about 1.3 million people in the United States, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Fever is one of the common complications of RA, and it can be associated with several factors, including inflammation, infection, and medication. In this article, we will discuss the link between rheumatoid arthritis and fever and explore the possible causes, symptoms, and treatments of fever in RA patients.

The Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Before we delve into the relationship between RA and fever, let’s first understand the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial tissue that lines the joints, causing inflammation and pain.

Over time, the inflamed synovial tissue can damage the cartilage and bone, leading to deformities and disabilities. The exact cause of RA is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Women are more likely than men to develop RA, and the onset of the disease usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 60.

The Relationship Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fever:

Fever is a common symptom of RA, and it can occur at any stage of the disease. Fever is defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C), and it is considered a sign of inflammation or infection.

In RA patients, fever can be caused by several factors, including:.

1- Inflammation:

The inflammation that occurs in the synovial tissue can also affect other parts of the body, leading to fever, fatigue, and malaise. When the immune system is activated, it releases cytokines, which are proteins that promote inflammation and fever.

Some of these cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), are elevated in RA patients and can induce fever.

2- Infection:

RA patients are more susceptible to infections due to the immune dysfunction caused by the disease and the immunosuppressive medications used to treat it. Infections can cause fever, chills, sweats, and other flu-like symptoms.

Common infections in RA patients include respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and fungal infections. In some cases, fever in RA patients may be the first sign of an underlying infection.

3- Medications:

The medications used to treat RA can also cause fever as a side effect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can cause gastrointestinal irritation, liver toxicity, and fever.

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infections, including fever.

The Symptoms of Fever in Rheumatoid Arthritis:

The symptoms of fever in RA patients can vary depending on the underlying cause. In general, fever is associated with the following symptoms:.

1- High body temperature:

Fever is defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) and can be measured using a thermometer. In RA patients, fever can rise and fall throughout the day and can be accompanied by chills, sweats, and flushing.

2- Fatigue:

Fever can cause fatigue, weakness, and lethargy, making it difficult to perform daily activities. RA patients may experience increased fatigue during periods of fever, which can contribute to reduced productivity and quality of life.

3- Joint pain and swelling:

RA patients may experience worsening of joint pain and swelling during periods of fever, as inflammation can exacerbate the symptoms of the disease. Joint pain and swelling may be more severe in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

4- Other symptoms:

Fever in RA patients may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as headache, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are more likely to occur when fever is caused by infection.

The Treatment of Fever in Rheumatoid Arthritis:

The treatment of fever in RA patients depends on the underlying cause. Here are some of the treatment options:.

1- Anti-inflammatory medication:

If the fever is caused by inflammation, such as in a flare-up of RA, anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve fever.

However, long-term use of these medications can cause side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and osteoporosis.

2- Antibiotics:

If an infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection and reduce fever. The choice of antibiotics depends on the type and severity of the infection.

3- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs):

DMARDs, such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine, are commonly used to treat RA and can reduce inflammation and fever.

However, DMARDs can take several weeks or months to work, and they may cause side effects, such as liver and kidney damage.

4- Rest and hydration:

Resting and staying hydrated can help reduce fever and restore energy levels. RA patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity during periods of fever and to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Conclusion:

Fever is a common complication of rheumatoid arthritis and can be caused by several factors, including inflammation, infection, and medication.

Recognizing the symptoms of fever in RA patients and determining the underlying cause is essential for proper treatment and management of the disease. By understanding the link between rheumatoid arthritis and fever, we can take steps to minimize the impact of these symptoms on our health and well-being.