Rheumatoid arthritis doubles the risk of heart disease, but the prevalence appears to be declining, thanks to efforts to prevent heart problems and provide early diagnosis and treatment. This is according to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology's annual meeting in San Francisco, CA. nflammation is known to contribute to blood vessel damage and is one of the risk factors for heart disease. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have higher levels of inflammation overall, affecting not only joints but also other organs and tissues. RA-related inflammation causes the narrowing of blood vessels and formation of plaque, a hard substance made out of trapped cholesterol, calcium and other matter, which can block arteries and reduce blood flow.
When pieces of plaque break off and enter the bloodstream, they may clog smaller vessels, causing a heart attack or stroke. Inflammation can also occur in the wall in the hearts of people with RA, potentially aggravating the risk of heart failure. Signs of heart failure, which include swelling of the lower legs, shortness of breath and fatigue, are common symptoms of RA, and may therefore be overlooked as warning signs. RA can also lead to inflammation of the pericardium, the two-layered sac that surrounds the heart. The inflamed sacs rub against each other, causing sharp, intense chest pain. People with RA have, moreover, a greater risk of atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder associated with heart failure, stroke and death. Inflammation control is therefore vital in patients with RA to protect the heart as well as the joints.
Previous studies have shown that people with RA have up to twice the risk of cardiac problems, which may occur within a year of diagnosis. Dr. Myasoedova says: "More research is needed to confirm why heart disease deaths among rheumatoid arthritis patients have declined, but potential factors include earlier and more vigilant screening for heart problems, improved treatment for heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis, and in general, more attention to heart health in patients with rheumatoid arthritis." Medical News Today