For those who have it, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is bad enough on its own. The condition involves stiff and tender joints, fatigue, fevers, and more. Even so, its dangers don’t end with its direct symptoms; there’s a link between rheumatoid arthritis and sleep apnea. A bad case of RA could make your nights quite restless, further reducing your quality of life. To learn more, read over this summary of the matter from your Las Vegas sleep dentist.
Apnea & Arthritis are Connected
People don’t often associate arthritis with sleep apnea. However, the former can actually put you at greater risk of the latter.
This conclusion comes from the latest science. For instance, a 2016 study by BMJ Open Body found that folks with RA had a rate of sleep apnea 75% higher than others. The Journal of Rheumatology published similar findings in 2009; its scholars linked RA to heart disease – a major sleep apnea risk factor.
A link between RA and sleep apnea is worth taking seriously. After all, it indicates that you could suffer from joint problems and sleepless nights at the same time. This combination of issues would greatly impact your day-to-day life, making daily routines much more difficult and troublesome.
How are the Two Related?
Researchers haven’t yet found the core reason for the sleep apnea – arthritis link. That said, some possible explanations already exist. These include the following:
- Bodily Inflammation – Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammatory substances to gather in your body. Such materials could disrupt the sleep process.
- Structural Abnormalities – People with RA typically have structural abnormalities in their heads, necks, and spines. These deformities can include underdeveloped jaws and small upper airways, which contribute to sleep apnea.
- Obesity – Studies show that obesity could be a common trigger for both RA and sleep apnea.
A Sleep Apnea Dentist Can Help
Sleep dentists don’t (and can’t) treat RA, but they’ll gladly help you with RA-related sleep apnea. They’re quite capable of treating the latter issue.
Indeed, a sleep dentist could provide you with oral appliance therapy. This procedure uses retainers, mouthguards, and similar devices to reposition your jaw during sleep. In doing so, it’d keep your airway open and ensure easier nighttime breathing. The result would be deeper and more restful snoozing!
Given the link between sleep apnea and rheumatoid arthritis, don’t hesitate to get treatment. You shouldn’t have to live with both ailments at once!
About the Practice
iSleepSolutions is based in Las Vegas, NV. Led by Drs. Pamela West and Stephanie Gorczyca, our practice has everything needed to help you snooze more soundly. We offer oral appliance therapy, Vivos, snoring treatment, TMJ therapy, and more! Whether your problem is sleep apnea, headaches, or something else, our team is ready to make your nights more restful. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (702)-602-2000.