Unchecked Rheumatoid Arthritis: Risks Over Time and Immediately
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects millions worldwide. If left untreated, RA can lead to a host of severe consequences, including permanent joint deformities, significant systemic health issues, and an increased risk of premature mortality.
In the early stages, signs of worsening RA include increased pain, stiffness, and deformities in affected joints, as well as symptoms in previously unaffected joints. Flare-ups may also become more severe and frequent. Untreated RA can cause irreversible joint damage such as bone erosion, cartilage destruction, joint deformity, and loss of function. This leads to significant disability, reduced mobility, and difficulties performing daily tasks.
Beyond physical joint damage, untreated RA causes systemic complications affecting other organs. For instance, it increases the risks of cardiovascular disease, lung problems, anemia, vasculitis, amyloidosis, and other organ involvement. Inflammation in the lungs and increased susceptibility to infections are also common. These systemic effects, combined with disability from joint destruction, contribute to a shortened life expectancy if RA remains unmanaged.
RA-related systemic complications, such as cardiovascular disease and lung problems, are leading causes of death in RA patients. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial to prevent these severe outcomes.
People with RA can discuss any worsening RA symptoms with their doctor, including the frequency and severity of RA flare-ups. The aim of RA treatment is to relieve symptoms, improve function, and prevent joint damage and inflammation. First-line treatment includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids.
In some cases, a doctor may prescribe biologics, such as tocilizumab (Actemra), alone or alongside a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). DMARDs, which alter the immune system's response, are a crucial part of second-line management. Options include methotrexate (MTX), hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), and sulfasalazine (Azulfidine).
Self-care measures for managing RA symptoms at home include maintaining a moderate weight, eating a balanced, nutritious diet, avoiding smoking, exercising daily, taking regular breaks to rest, using heat treatments and cold therapy, trying complementary therapies such as massage and meditation, taking certain supplements, and creating an emotional support system.
While the average person with RA has a life expectancy relative to the general population, untreated RA may lead to a reduced life expectancy compared to people without the condition. It is essential to seek medical advice promptly and adhere to treatment plans to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
[1] Arthritis Foundation. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis. https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355118 [3] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/rheumatoid-arthritis [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/conditions/rheumatoidarthritis/index.htm [5] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/
