Are Rheumatoid Arthritis Sufferers More Likely to Develop Sleep Apnea?

Do you wake up with stiff or inflamed joints? Are you chronically fatigued because of continuous inflammation throughout your body? It may be that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is to blame. But there is also another option – one that is commonly found among those living with RA – sleep apnea. Read on to discover how the two conditions are connected and what you can do to get the help you need.

When Chronic Pain & Adequate Rest Don’t Mix: The Link Between RA and Sleep Apnea

Researchers have found that many patients who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to develop a sleep disorder, one of which is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

While the chronic pain a person with RA experiences can make it difficult to achieve adequate rest, it is believed that there may be other potential reasons, including:

• Structural Abnormalities – These can include a poorly developed lower jaw, a narrower airway caused by worn-down TMJs, or compression of the brain stem.
• Joint Inflammation – If inflammation occurs because of what is known as high tumor necrosis factor (TNF) proteins, it can result in rheumatoid arthritis as well as an increased risk of OSA.
• Being Overweight or Obese – Carrying too much weight, specifically around the neck can lead to OSA as well as increased inflammation, which can also cause RA.

What Problems Can Occur if Left Untreated?

Patients who choose to neglect treatment for their sleep apnea and/or rheumatoid arthritis may find that various aspects of life become more difficult.

Fatigue is a common symptom that both disorders share. If high levels of inflammation occur in a person with RA, they’re more likely to tire out quickly. The same is true for someone who is overweight and experiences inflammation, as it can lead to a blockage within the airway (OSA) and cause sleep interruptions throughout the night.

Without proper treatment, sleep deprivation can lead to an increased risk of drowsy driving or even cardiovascular disease.

What Can You Do to Treat RA and Sleep Apnea?

It is recommended that individuals who have RA undergo a sleep study to determine if OSA is a present concern. Lack of sleep can cause symptoms to worsen, making daily tasks difficult to complete.  

Once a formal diagnosis is provided, a patient can receive help from a sleep dentist who can provide effective treatment that addresses OSA symptoms. Many individuals pursue CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) treatment; however, there is another option for those who prefer a less cumbersome device – oral appliance therapy.

By shifting the jaw slightly forward while asleep, the airway remains open, allowing for unobstructed breathing and reduced interruptions. This welcome result can help RA sufferers avoid pain throughout the night and instead get the rest they need to function each day.

There is still much research required to better understand the connection between RA and OSA, but taking the step to seek treatment for sleep apnea can help reduce RA symptoms and allow for a better quality of life.

About the Author
Do you suffer from sleep apnea? Dr. Shelley Shults is a board-certified registered nurse, general dentist, family nurse practitioner, and dental sleep medicine practitioner who wants to help. Leading a team of professionals at Powell Dental Sleep Solutions, she uses advanced technology and treatments to help patients get the rest they need, even when chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are present. To learn more about how treating sleep apnea can improve RA symptoms, contact us at (614) 681-8593.