Complications of rheumatoid arthritis (part 4)

Osteoporosis: Rheumatoid arthritis itself, along with some medications used for treating rheumatoid arthritis, can increase your risk of osteoporosis.

Rheumatoid nodules: These firm bumps of tissue most commonly form around pressure points, such as the elbows. 

Dry eyes and mouth: People who have rheumatoid arthritis are much more likely to develop Sjogren's syndrome, a disorder that decreases the amount of moisture in the eyes and mouth.

Infections: Rheumatoid arthritis itself and many of the medications used to combat it can impair the immune system, leading to increased infections. 

Abnormal body composition: The proportion of fat to lean mass is often higher in people who have rheumatoid arthritis, even in those who have a normal body mass index (BMI).

Carpal tunnel syndrome: If rheumatoid arthritis affects your wrists, the inflammation can compress the nerve that serves most of your hand and fingers.

Heart problems: Rheumatoid arthritis can increase your risk of hardened and blocked arteries, as well as inflammation of the sac that encloses your heart. Lung disease: People with rheumatoid arthritis have an increased risk of inflammation and scarring of the lung tissues, which can lead to progressive shortness of breath.

Lymphoma: Rheumatoid arthritis increases the risk of lymphoma, a group of blood cancers that develop in the lymph system.

Courtesy: Mayo Clinic