Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a painful condition that can significantly interfere with your quality of life. Unfortunately, it could even have an impact on your nighttime rest! This blog post explores the connection between rheumatoid arthritis and an increased risk of sleep apnea. It also provides suggestions that might help you start getting the rejuvenating rest that you need.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Sleep Apnea Have a Strong Correlation
RA is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own tissue. It can have a great impact on the health and mobility of joints. Sleep apnea is a separate disorder; it causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. The most common type of this condition is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when tissues block the flow of air in the throat.
A study from 2016 found that rates of sleep apnea were an astonishing 75% higher in individuals with RA, compared to those without RA. Different research, which was published in 2009, found a 50% higher incidence of OSA in individuals with RA.
The correlation between these two conditions should not be dismissed, especially since OSA can contribute to a range of other health conditions, including heart attack, stroke, and more.
What Is the Reason for the Connection?
Researchers are not completely sure why there is such a strong correlation between OSA and RA. However, there are a number of possible explanations:
- TMJ problems. Individuals with RA may have a degree of degradation in their temporomandibular joints (TMJs), which control movement of the lower jaw. TMJ problems can affect airway function.
- Narrowing cervical vertebrae. RA may cause a reduction of the spaces between cervical vertebrae, which may contribute to severe sleep apnea.
- Inflammatory cytokines. Inflammatory cytokines are messenger cells in the body. RA increases their presence, which could have an effect on sleep regulation.
- Common risk factors. Obesity is common among people with RA and OSA.
What Can You Do?
If you have been diagnosed with RA and are concerned about the quality of your sleep, talk to your doctor. They may help you arrange for a sleep test, which can reveal whether or not you have OSA and how severe the disorder is. Thereafter, you can learn about your treatment options.
Fortunately, OSA is usually easy to address. Many people find that a custom oral appliance from a dentist is the most convenient way to increase the quality of their sleep. An appliance simply repositions the lower jaw in order to keep the airway open at night.
OSA and RA are connected! Pay attention to the quality of your sleep so you can seek professional care in a timely manner.
Meet the Practice
Our practice is the proud home of three talented sleep dentists, all of whom have great compassion for individuals struggling with rheumatoid arthritis and obstructive sleep apnea. If you are worried that you are not getting enough high-quality sleep each night, we would be pleased to consult with you. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact our Tulsa office at 918-300-4325.