The link between arthritis and heart disease
Arthritis and heart disease are connected through inflammation and shared risk factors. Learn how conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase heart disease risk, and discover ways to manage both for better health.
Written by Dr Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Arthritis and heart disease may seem like two very different problems, but they are connected. People with arthritis, especially those with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher risk of heart problems. Inflammation from arthritis can harm blood vessels and lead to heart disease. Taking care of both conditions can help you feel better and stay healthier.
Types of Arthritis Linked to Heart Disease
Different types of arthritis have been linked to heart disease. These include the following:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own joints. This causes swelling and damage, but it can also affect blood vessels and increase the risk of heart problems like blocked arteries.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage between joints wears down over time. While it doesn’t involve inflammation like RA, it can still lead to heart disease due to factors like obesity and lack of exercise.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition. Like RA, it involves inflammation that can harm blood vessels and increase the chance of heart attacks or strokes.
Why People with Arthritis Have a Higher Risk of Heart Disease
People with arthritis, especially inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis, have a higher risk of developing heart disease. Inflammation, shared risk factors, and even some arthritis medications can increase this risk. Here’s a breakdown of why the risk increases:
Inflammation and Heart Disease
Inflammation is a big reason why arthritis increases heart disease risk. It can cause plaque to build up in arteries, leading to blockages. Inflammation also makes these plaques unstable, which can cause heart attacks or strokes.
Lifestyle Factors
Some habits or conditions that are common in arthritis patients also increase heart disease risk:
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and increases inflammation.
- Obesity: Adds strain to joints and raises cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Lack of Exercise: Reduces heart and joint health.
Side Effects of Medications
Certain arthritis treatments, like corticosteroids and NSAIDs, can increase blood pressure, raise cholesterol, or affect kidney function. These side effects may make heart disease more likely.
How Arthritis Affects the Heart
Understanding the link between arthritis and heart disease can help people manage their health better. Here’s the impact it can have:
Chronic Inflammation: Long-term inflammation damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots. It also makes the arteries stiff and less flexible, which is bad for heart health.
- Physical Activity Changes: Joint pain and stiffness can make it harder to stay active. Without regular exercise, people may gain weight, and their heart and lungs might not stay as strong.
- Direct Heart Involvement: In some cases, arthritis itself can affect the heart directly. For example, rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation in the lining of the heart (pericarditis) or the heart muscle (myocarditis).
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Signs of Heart Disease in Arthritis Patients
Learning about symptoms is crucial because people can seek medical help immediately. Some of the signs of heart disease in arthritis patients are:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Feeling very tired
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the feet or legs
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
Some symptoms, like fatigue or shortness of breath, can happen with both arthritis and heart disease. This can make it harder to figure out what’s causing the problem, so regular check-ups are important.
How Doctors Check for Heart Problems in Arthritis Patients
Doctors may ask a person to undergo certain lab tests to check for heart problems:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart’s electrical activity.
- Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart.
- Coronary Artery Calcium Scan: Looks for calcium deposits in arteries, which can signal plaque buildup.
People with arthritis should have regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks. Testing for inflammation markers, like C-reactive protein (CRP), can also help identify risks early.
Managing Arthritis and Heart Disease
Managing arthritis and heart disease is crucial. Here’s what patients can do:
Medication
Treating both arthritis and heart disease often involves different medications:
- For Arthritis: Anti-inflammatory drugs and biologics can reduce joint pain and swelling.
- For Heart Disease: Statins, beta-blockers, and blood thinners help manage cholesterol, blood pressure, and clot risks.
It’s essential to consult your doctor before starting any medication to ensure proper management and avoid potential interactions.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can help reduce risks:
- Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like those found in fish.
- Stay Active: Try low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga.
- Manage Stress: Activities like meditation or deep breathing can help reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help people with arthritis stay mobile and active. Exercise not only helps the joints but also strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
Complications and Long-Term Outlook
When arthritis and heart disease happen together, complications can arise. Here are some of them:
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
- Worsened joint problems from reduced mobility
- Side effects from taking multiple medications
- With the right care, many people with both conditions can still live full and active lives. Early diagnosis and regular care are key to avoiding serious complications.
Preventing Heart Disease in Arthritis Patients
Managing inflammation is one of the best ways to lower heart disease risk. This includes:
- Taking medications as prescribed
- Eating foods that fight inflammation, like berries and leafy greens
- Staying physically active
Patients should also follow these heart-healthy tips:
- Don’t smoke, and avoid being around people who do.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Get regular check-ups to monitor your heart and joint health.
Conclusion
Arthritis and heart disease are closely linked because of shared risk factors like inflammation. People with arthritis should be aware of their higher risk for heart problems and take steps to protect their heart.
It’s important for people with arthritis to work closely with both their rheumatologist and cardiologist. By managing inflammation, adopting healthy habits, and staying on top of screenings, they can reduce risks and improve their quality of life.
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