Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) generally reduces life expectancy by a few years (around 3-10 years, depending on studies and severity), but with modern treatments, many people live long lives, often into their 80s or 90s, similar to the general population. Key factors affecting lifespan include younger age at diagnosis, severe disease (joint damage, organ involvement, specific antibodies like anti-CCP), presence of other health issues, and effectiveness of early, consistent treatment, with heart disease, infections, and lung problems being common causes of mortality.
With Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), you should avoid high-impact activities (running, jumping), repetitive motions, overexertion that triggers flares, excessive couch time, and skipping medications, while also being mindful of potential trigger foods like added sugars, processed items, and potentially gluten/nightshades if they worsen symptoms for you, as well as the damaging habit of smoking, to protect joints and manage inflammation.
People with RA don't live as long as other people on average. Life expectancy, or how long you may expect to live, is influenced by many things, like your genes, age, medical history, and lifestyle. RA can shorten your life expectancy by an average of 10 years compared to people who don't have the disease.
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis avoid exercise, fearing it will worsen their joint pain. But regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to lessen the pain, stiffness and disability often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
A test result of less than 20 IU/mL is considered negative, between 20-60 IU/mL is considered low positive, and over 60 IU/mL is considered high positive. A doctor interprets the test results and advises about any further tests or treatment needed. A high rheumatoid factor is often associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Overexertion, poor sleep, stress or an infection like the flu can all set off RA symptoms.
RA can increase the risk of certain cancers like lymphoma, lung cancer, and skin cancer. The increased risk of these cancers may be due to inflammation, medications, or both. RA may lower the risk of colorectal and breast cancer.
Lifestyle and home remedies
The Adversaries: Foods to Avoid with Rheumatoid Arthritis
If you have arthritis, staying active can help reduce pain and stiffness. It can improve flexibility, strengthen muscles and boost endurance. It also can help you manage your weight and improve your mood.
Associations of MTX use with mortality
In this model, MTX use was associated with a 70% reduction in mortality (HR 0.30, 95% CI 0.09, 1.03) (Table 2).
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Researchers think it's caused by a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors. Normally, your immune system protects your body from disease. With RA, something triggers your immune system to attack your own joints.
For most people with rheumatoid arthritis, it's best to avoid jobs that require repetitive movements over a long period of time. Lifting heavy items, bending, crouching and even standing or sitting for too long can all have a toll on joints.
Swimming or exercise in water is very popular for people with rheumatoid arthritis, especially if experiencing a flare or pain increase. The buoyancy of the water eases movement and extends soft tissue. Water can act as a resistance, increasing muscle strength.
Studies have shown that most sleep issues experienced in patients with RA stem from pain. In particular, difficulties with falling asleep and feeling tired after sleep have been found to be associated with lower pain threshold, pain severity, depression, and inflammation in patients with RA [14,15,16,17].
4 Even moderate weight gain can stress joints that are already burdened by arthritis. Diet can also play a role in pain and inflammation in people with arthritis. Foods that may trigger an arthritis flare-up include processed foods, deep-fried foods, trans fats, refined flours, red meat, and sugar.
Upping your vitamin D intake has been shown to help with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for building strong bones.
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and stiffness. Studies show that those who ate omega-3 rich foods or took a fish oil supplement had a reduction in joint pain. If you're not a fan of fish, try plant-based sources of Omega-3 foods such as ground flax, flaxseed oil and walnuts.
Bananas are high in magnesium, which helps strengthen bones and alleviate arthritis symptoms. Dark green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, contain iron that helps fight anemia resulting from anti-inflammatory medications.
Vitamin D is emerging as an essential vitamin in managing multiple rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Vitamin D plays a role in the immune pathways of multiple diseases, which is why supplementation is recommended if you are vitamin D deficient. Normal vitamin D levels range from 30–100 ng/mL.
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered a qualifying disability under SSDI, but it must be advanced to meet the requirements. This means your rheumatoid arthritis must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months.
Periods of severe symptoms or very advances stages of the condition can sometimes cause fatigue. Fatigue is different than normal feelings of tiredness. People describe it as being overwhelming and uncontrollable. They feel worn out and drained of energy, and sometimes even lose all interest in anything.
The cause is likely a mix of genetic changes and factors from outside the body, called environmental. Hormones may play a role. An infection with certain viruses may start rheumatoid arthritis in people whose genes make them more likely to get it.
Long-term side effects
Methotrexate may increase the risk of problems with your liver or lungs, especially if you take a high dose. However, your doctor will monitor you very closely and any concerns or problems will be found during routine check-ups.
Yoga and tai chi are ancient practices that combine deep breathing, gentle, flowing movement, poses and meditation. Studies show that both practices have great benefits for people with RA. The Arthritis Foundation offers yoga and tai chi DVDs, all specifically designed for people with arthritis.