Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep, which occur because loose tissues block airflow. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that causes joint pain and inflammation. It might seem strange to draw a connection between them, but recent research highlights a strong link! If you live with rheumatoid arthritis, understanding this connection may help you take steps to improve your nightly rest and overall well-being.
How Does RA Increase the Risk of OSA?
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may be more likely to experience obstructive sleep apnea for several reasons:
- Structural changes in the head, neck, and spine: RA can lead to changes in your joints and bones, especially in the cervical spine. These changes may narrow or compress your airway, making it harder to breathe while you sleep.
- Chronic inflammation: The inflammation that comes with RA can affect tissues in your upper airway. Swelling in these areas may further narrow the airway, increasing the chances of airway collapse and breathing interruptions.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight is a common risk factor for OSA and often occurs alongside RA. Medications used for RA management, such as steroids, may contribute to weight gain, and joint pain can make staying active more challenging.
How Does OSA Affect People with RA?
Not only does RA increase the risk of OSA, but obstructive sleep apnea can also make living with rheumatoid arthritis more difficult. Some ways OSA may impact you include:
- Increased fatigue: Disrupted sleep can leave you feeling exhausted, which may worsen joint pain and make daily activities more challenging.
- Worsened inflammation: Poor sleep can trigger additional inflammation in your body, potentially making RA symptoms more severe.
- Higher risk of other health issues: Untreated OSA may increase your chances of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and other conditions that can complicate RA management.
- Impaired mood and concentration: Sleep disturbances may affect your mood, memory, and ability to focus, making it harder to cope with the demands of RA.
How Can You Enjoy Better Sleep?
Improving your sleep quality is important for managing rheumatoid arthritis and reducing the impact of OSA. These strategies may help:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Work with your healthcare provider to develop a balanced diet and an exercise plan tailored to your needs.
- Manage inflammation: Follow your treatment plan, which may include medications, physical therapy, or recommended alternative therapies, to help control RA-related inflammation.
- Adjust your sleep position: Try sleeping on your side and use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck and spine aligned.
- Seek professional treatment for sleep apnea: Talk to your dentist or sleep specialist about options like custom oral appliances to help keep your airway open at night.
- Address joint pain before bed: Use heat or cold packs, topical pain relievers, or a warm bath to relax your joints and make falling asleep easier.
RA and OSA make for a troubling combination! Be proactive about managing your health so you can minimize the impact of these conditions.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Mitch Conditt has decades of experience in dentistry, and in recent years, he has focused his practice on helping patients with obstructive sleep apnea. He provides custom oral appliances that promote proper breathing. If you believe you have OSA or are interested in exploring your treatment options, Dr. Conditt and our Fort Worth team would be pleased to assist you. Contact our office at 817-527-8500.