Sleep Assessment
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a serious condition affecting more than one million people in the United States. Individuals with this disease must cope with chronic joint pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, they may also struggle to get adequate high-quality sleep. In fact, research suggests that RA can increase a person’s risk of developing sleep apnea. How are these conditions connected? Read on to find out from your sleep dentist in Topeka.
The Relationship Between RA and Sleep Apnea
There are a few types of sleep apnea. The most common variety, known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is characterized by pauses in breathing that occur when tissues in the throat block the free flow of air during sleep. OSA can have numerous causes, including excess fat around the neck, chronic nasal congestion, anatomical abnormalities of the airway, and more.
Research shows that people with RA are more susceptible to OSA than the general population. A study published in 2016 found the rate of sleep apnea was 75 percent higher in people with RA than in those without the disease.
Why Are RA and OSA Connected?
Scientists are not positive about why RA is so strongly correlated with OSA. However, there are a few possible explanations:
- Joint and tissue deterioration. As RA progresses, it can cause bone erosion and joint deformities. These issues can affect the jaw and the joint that controls it (temporomandibular joint). In turn, this can cause a narrowing of the airway.
- Inflammation. RA increases the amount of an inflammatory substance in the body known as TNF. Elevated TNF levels are also common in victims of OSA.
- Obesity. Obesity is common in people with RA and those with OSA. It is an underlying risk factor that may contribute to the onset and severity of both conditions.
The symptoms and risks of OSA on top of RA can make a person’s life significantly more difficult and, in the worst-case scenario, considerably shorter. On a related note to lifespan, both of these conditions become common as a person ages, so with each passing year, it’s more important that you are aware and proactive about seeking treatment for them.
What Can You Do?
Sadly, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, it can be managed via medication and physiotherapy.
Due to the joint pain associated with RA, it can lead to sleep disturbances. While this is a logical effect, the high correlation between RA and OSA due to the potential reasons referenced in the previous section means it is definitely prudent for someone struggling with RA to get a sleep apnea screening.
If you are diagnosed with OSA, you can investigate your treatment options. Many patients choose to get a simple oral appliance from a dentist. It gently repositions the jaw at night to keep the airway open and facilitate easier breathing.
RA and OSA often go hand-in-hand. The good news is with proper treatment, both conditions can be well-managed.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Michel earned his dental doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He has been working to help patients in Topeka for more than four decades. Dental sleep medicine is a passion for Dr. Michel, and he’s pursued advanced training and continuing education in the specialty for many years. If you are facing issues related to sleep apnea, snoring, or TMJ dysfunction, he is ready to help you get much-needed relief. You can schedule a consultation on his website or call (785) 273-0802.