Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Cause Deadly Complications If Left Untreated

Rheumatoid arthritis can be very painful, and it’s one of the most common types of arthritis that Dr. Nikesh Seth treats. However, did you know that it can be deadly if it’s not treated correctly? Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic type of arthritis that increases your odds of lung and heart disease. The actual risk depends on many factors, including how RA progresses, the patient’s lifestyle, and their age. Although there is no cure for RA, there are a variety of treatments available to slow down the progression and ultimately minimize complications.

RA INCREASES INFLAMMATION IN THE BODY’S TISSUE

RA increases inflammation in the body’s tissue. Although RA itself isn’t deadly, the resulting inflammation can be life-threatening. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network reports that RA patients have lifespans 10 – 15 years shorter than the average population. However, if you have RA, you can beat those odds by getting the right treatment as quickly as possible. When a person with RA controls their symptoms, their life spans are the same as everyone else.

INFLAMMATION CAN LEAD TO PERMANENT ORGAN DAMAGE

Inflammation can lead to permanent organ damage over time. However, recent reports have found that mortality rates in those with RA have been decreasing in recent years. This is likely due to improved treatment, earlier diagnoses, and patients being more informed about how lifestyle changes can increase their lifespan with RA.

Nobody knows exactly what causes RA, and there’s no one size fits all treatment. However, trying different approaches with the guidance of a skilled pain expert can help you slow down the progression of RA and minimize pain. One of the most common symptoms of RA is back pain, which happens when your body’s immune system attacks the spine’s synovial lining. Compression of the spinal cord can happen in advanced stages of RA.

Schedule your checkup with IPC today to discuss treatment options for Rheumatoid arthritis

If you have arthritis or suffer from any type of pain, an early diagnosis is critical. Call Integrated Pain Consultants at 480-626-2552 and get on the fast track to management.