Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. But did you know it can affect your lungs too? While RA primarily targets the joints, its effects on the respiratory system, specifically the lungs, and should not be overlooked. Dr Hari Kishan Gonuguntla, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, explained how RA can affect your lungs.
What Is The Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis And Lungs
Dr Gonuguntla said it's important to understand that the lungs and joints share a common link in rheumatoid arthritis; inflammation. It is the hallmark of RA and can occur throughout the body. When the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues, it triggers inflammation, leading to joint damage in RA. However, this inflammatory process can extend to other organs, including the lungs.
How Does It Affect Your Lungs
Dr Gonuguntla said, “Occasionally lung problems can be the presenting manifestation of this disease, even before joint disease starts. Men in their 50-60s with active smoking history will have more tendency to develop rheumatoid-related lung problems." He also listed various problems linked to RA and the lungs, which are as follows:
Interstitial Lung Disease
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a spectrum of lung illnesses marked by inflammation and scarring of lung tissues. Dr Gonuguntla said that in individuals with RA, chronic inflammation can affect the lining of the lungs and lead to the development of ILD. Symptoms of ILD may include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, fatigue, and chest pain. If left untreated, ILD can progress and significantly impair the lung function.
Also Read: Deciphering The Connection Between Rheumatoid Arthritis And Headache
Lung Nodules
Rheumatoid nodules, the small lumps that develop beneath the skin in individuals with RA, can also affect the lungs. These nodules can form in the lungs, leading to inflammation and scarring. When they develop in the airways, they can obstruct the airflow and cause respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and coughing.
Pleural Disease
The pleura is a thin membrane that borders and covers the chest cavity and the lungs. In rheumatoid arthritis, the pleura can become inflamed, leading to pleuritis or pleurisy. This condition causes chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a dry cough. In some cases, excess fluid may accumulate between the layers of the pleura, causing a condition known as pleural effusion. This can further compromise lung function and require medical intervention.
Also Read: Expert Explains Warning Signs Of Lung Inflammation
Small Airway Obstruction
The walls of the tiny airways in the lungs can thicken due to persistent inflammation and infection (bronchiectasis), or they can become irritated or wounded (bronchiolitis). This can result in mucus buildup in the lungs, shortness of breath, a chronic dry cough, exhaustion, and weakness.
Bottomline
If you have RA and are experiencing unexplained breathing problems, visit your doctor immediately. Dr Gonuguntla said that the treatment is given with Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), combined with oral corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents. Also, you should follow healthy measures, such as quitting smoking and reporting breathing problems to avoid complications.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by an expert, however, we recommend you to consult with your expert for a diagnosis according to your body type and medical history.