Arthritis doesn’t just affect your bones! Find out how it can affect your body differently

The chronic inflammatory disease rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect more than just your joints. Typically, this disease causes joint swelling and a range of symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness. However, the effects of arthritis can extend beyond your joints.

According to Dr. According to Samir Rajadhyaksha, consultant rheumatologist at Global Hospital Parel in Mumbai, “Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects small and large joints. The main symptoms are joint pain, swelling and stiffness. In addition to the joints being affected, other organs can also be affected.”

Scroll down to learn all about the complications of rheumatoid arthritis and what you can do to prevent them.

Organs Affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Lung

According to an expert, rheumatoid arthritis can affect the lungs and cause interstitial lung disease, which manifests as a chronic cough and shortness of breath during exertion. Studies have also shown that enteropulmonary disease is one of the primary complications of RA.

2. Eyes

If you often have dry eyes, there is a possibility that this is due to the presence of rheumatoid arthritis. Dr Rajadhyaksha says, “It can affect the eyes and cause dry eyes and eye inflammation.” It is best to discuss these symptoms with your doctor and get the appropriate medication.

3. Skin

Did you know that rheumatoid arthritis can cause skin problems? The doctor explains that a skin rash or ulcers on the hands and feet are some of the common symptoms that people with rheumatoid arthritis experience. On the face, RA can even affect your nervous system.

4. Heart

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a 2-fold higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, which are also the most common cause of death in patients with RA. Long-term untreated disease and inflammation play an important role in cardiovascular disease, says Dr. Rajadhyaksha.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is extremely important

Although treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is essential, screening and treatment of concomitant diabetes, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol are of utmost importance. Dr Rajadhyaksha explained that treatment for RA includes painkillers, steroids and immunosuppressive drugs.

“Monitoring the side effects of these drugs on the organs is mandatory. Uncontrolled use of painkillers (known as NSAIDs) can cause kidney problems and stomach ulcers. Steroids should be used judiciously in the lowest possible doses for the shortest period of time, as long-term use can cause osteoporosis, diabetes, cataracts. “Immunosuppressants suppress immunity and increase susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections,” he emphasized.

“With drugs like hydroxychloroquine, periodic eye exams are recommended AND with methotrexate regular blood counts and liver tests under the supervision of a rheumatologist. Due to the chronic nature of the disease, it is also important to screen for depression and treat it,” added Dr. Rajadhyaksha.

What is the best way to manage rheumatoid arthritis? Awareness of the disease, followed by early diagnosis and treatment with drugs known as DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) as soon as the diagnosis is made, is the best way to do this, according to an expert.

Lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of arthritis complications

Some of the methods you can choose to reduce your risk include changing lifestyle factors. Here are some things you can do:

• Don’t smoke
• Control your weight
• Make sure you exercise at least 5 days a week
• Eat a healthy and nutritious diet