As we all know only too well, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune condition marked by painful, swollen joints, progressing over time if not controlled. Although its exact cause is unknown, a mix of genetics and environmental factors is believed to trigger its initial onset1.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is much more complex than joint pain and swelling, which you probably know if you have lived with the condition for any length of time. It's so important to understand how an autoimmune condition affects your whole body so that you can make each day the best it can be, for you and your family/friends.
Understanding diagnosis types, symptoms that appear unrelated but are actually all tied back to your RA, gut health's critical tie-in, your mouth's overall health information and the hallmark warning against smoking are all important factors to know about your condition. We hope that this post will arm you with a wider understanding of your RA health, and help you work with your rheumatologist and wider care team to live a fuller, healthier life.
#1: Antibodies Influence Different RA Types
- Specific antibodies like anti-citrullinated protein antibodies and Rheumatoid Factor in the blood can help identify RA types and may be detectable years before symptoms appear2.When these antibodies are present, it’s termed seropositive RA. When they are not present, your condition is defined as seronegative RA. Regardless of the type, you still have Rheumatoid Arthritis, and treatment approaches remain similar – don’t let any providers tell you differently. When these antibodies are present, it’s termed seropositive RA. When they are not present, your condition is defined as seronegative RA. Regardless of the type, you still have Rheumatoid Arthritis, and treatment approaches remain similar – don’t let any providers tell you differently.
- What does this mean for you? Understanding whether you have seropositive or seronegative RA can help tailor your treatment plan. If you test positive for these antibodies, you might receive earlier and more aggressive treatments to manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. Even if you are seronegative, the same treatment strategies apply, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and managing the disease and finding a rheumatologist who understands the role of antibodies -- and that they don't determine a diagnosis.
#2: Rheumatoid Arthritis' Impact Beyond Joints
- While RA primarily affects joints, it can also involve other organs and systems (as with any autoimmune condition). Rheumatoid Arthritis is associated with an increased risk of conditions like depression, obesity, brain fog, heart disease, and eye issues such as scleritis, which causes redness, pain, blurry vision, and light sensitivity3,4. Additionally, people living with RA often experience greater fatigue. We feel the impact in daily life and activities from chronic pain and physical ability differences that didn’t occur before10.
- What does this mean for you? Being aware of the systemic nature of RA can help you and your healthcare provider monitor and address symptoms beyond joint pain. Regular check-ups for cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and eye health are crucial. This whole body approach ensures comprehensive care, improving your overall quality of life.
#3: Diet’s Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis Management
- Eating a diet rich in fish, fruits, and vegetables can lower the risk of developing RA. Essential nutrients, particularly beta-cryptoxanthin and vitamin D (often low in RA patients), play a crucial role in managing and even preventing the disease5,6,7. Research also suggests that incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and ginger can help reduce RA symptoms11.
- What does this mean for you? Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can be a powerful tool in managing Rheumatoid Arthritis. Adding even small amounts of foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian who is familiar with autoimmune conditions. They can help create a diet plan that supports your treatment regimen can help improve your overall health as well as your RA-specific management.
#4: Oral Health’s Connection to Rheumatoid Arthritis
- A healthy mouth is vital in preventing RA. The oral biome, maintained by saliva, can be disrupted by harmful bacteria, potentially. Proper oral hygiene helps prevent this autoimmune response8.
- What does this mean for you? Maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of developing or progressing your Rheumatoid Arthritis. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing, and avoiding habits that harm oral health are essential. This simple but effective measure can support your overall health and potentially reduce RA symptoms.
#5: Smoking Elevates Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
- Tied to #4 above, smoking significantly impacts RA risk by altering the oral microbiome, increasing oxidative stress, and introducing harmful particulates.
- Both smoking/vaping, and second-hand smoke can worsen RA8,9. Quitting smoking is essential for reducing Rheumatoid Arthritis risk, as well as limiting your exposure to smoke vapors and fumes. We know it's easy to say "quit smoking" -- but any reduction in nicotine consumption is a positive. Finding the right smoking cessation program for you, being gentle with yourself, and finding ways to replace the reasons you are smoking/vaping are all good things to bring together to help your health and well-being.
- What does this mean for you? If you smoke or vape, quitting can significantly reduce your risk of developing RA or progressing its symptoms. Avoiding second-hand smoke is also crucial. Seeking support through cessation programs or consulting with healthcare providers can provide the necessary tools and strategies to quit smoking and improve your overall health. While it may not seem that smoking should be connected to a systemic joint condition, the research proves the connection is there.
Understanding the deeper elements of RA, from the role of antibodies and diet to the importance of oral health and the impact of smoking, is vital in managing and preventing this chronic condition. Adopting a balanced lifestyle with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good oral hygiene can go a long way in mitigating the risks associated with rheumatoid arthritis. We are always available to answer more questions, and help you create a treatment plan that covers all of the factors listed here.
To learn more about our Rheumission approach to care, please visit the Approach section of our site, or book a 15-minute intro call with one of our providers. The Rheumission Way helps you get back to being you, with more joy and less pain. We will listen to you and co-create a plan that works for where you are now, and where you want to be. We are always here for you.
About the Author
Dr. Micah Yu is an integrative rheumatologist who incorporates complementary medicine with traditional rheumatology. He is quadruple board-certified in Rheumatology, Internal Medicine, Integrative Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine. He obtained his MD from Chicago Medical School and holds a Masters in Healthcare Administration and Biomedical sciences. He completed his internal medicine residency and rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University in Southern California. He is a graduate of the Andrew Weil Integrative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Arizona. In addition, he is certified in functional medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. He has a very unique perspective on autoimmune disease and arthritis, as he is both a patient with arthritis and physician. Dr. Yu was diagnosed with gout at the age of 17 and later diagnosed with spondyloarthritis as well. He is able to understand his patient’s medical problems from a patient perspective. The foundation of his practice is to combine allopathic medicine with complementary medicine. He works with his patients to come up with a treatment plan that not only fights the disease, but also is aligned with his patient’s goals. In addition to Rheumission, Dr. Yu is on social media under @MYAutoimmuneMD educating about autoimmune diseases and integrative medicine.
Note: This information is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new healthcare regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
References:
1. Chauhan K, Jandu JS, Goyal A, et al. Rheumatoid Arthritis. [Updated 2021 Oct 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan. National Library of Medicine
2. Derksen, V., Huizinga, T., & van der Woude, D. (2017). The role of autoantibodies in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis. Seminars in immunopathology, 39(4), 437–446. PubMed/NIH
3. CDC. (2020, July 27). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC.gov
4. Promelle, V., Goeb, V., & Gueudry, J. (2021). Rheumatoid Arthritis Associated Episcleritis and Scleritis: An Update on Treatment Perspectives. Journal of clinical medicine, 10(10), 2118. PubMed/NIH
5. Skoczyńska, M., & Świerkot, J. (2018). The role of diet in rheumatoid arthritis. Reumatologia, 56(4), 259–267. National Library of Medicine
6. Vadell, A., Bärebring, L., Hulander, E., Gjertsson, I., Lindqvist, H. M., & Winkvist, A. (2020). Anti-inflammatory Diet In Rheumatoid Arthritis (ADIRA)-a randomized, controlled crossover trial indicating effects on disease activity. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 111(6), 1203–1213. PubMed/NIH
7. Sukharani, N., Dev, K., Rahul, F., Bai, P., Ali, A., Avinash, F., Kammawal, Y., Kumar, N., & Rizwan, A. (2021). Association Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Serum Vitamin D Levels. Cureus, 13(9), e18255. National Library of Medicine
8. Nikitakis, N. G., Papaioannou, W., Sakkas, L. I., & Kousvelari, E. (2017). The autoimmunity-oral microbiome connection. Oral diseases, 23(7), 828–839. National Library of Medicine
9. Pizzino, G., Irrera, N., Cucinotta, M., Pallio, G., Mannino, F., Arcoraci, V., Squadrito, F., Altavilla, D., & Bitto, A. (2017). Oxidative Stress: Harms and Benefits for Human Health. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2017, 8416763. National Library of Medicine
10. Smolen, J. S., Aletaha, D., & McInnes, I. B. (2016). Rheumatoid arthritis. The Lancet, 388(10055), 2023-2038. The Lancet
11. Bhatt, D. L., & Topol, E. J. (2002). Anti-inflammatory therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: The potential role of natural products, vitamins, and trace elements. Cardiovascular Therapeutics, 20(3), 201-209. PubMed/NIH