According to a report published online March 8, 2012 in the British Medical Journal, people with rheumatoid arthritis are also at increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. The study involved more than 4 million people, including more than 18,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis. The study participants, who were in Denmark, were followed for about 5 years.
Study results concluded that people with rheumatoid arthritis had a 40% greater risk of atrial fibrillation than the general population. Women were found to have slightly higher risk than men. People with rheumatoid arthritis also were found to have a 30% increased risk of stroke compared to the general population. Since inflammation plays a role in the development of atrial fibrillation and stroke, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, controlling inflammation is essential. It is now also recommended that rheumatoid arthritis patients have annual screening for cardiovascular risk factors, including screening for atrial fibrillation. I would suggest discussing these findings with both your rheumatologist and your internal medicine doctor.
Related Resources:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz
- Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis - What You Need to Know
- Heart Risk Rises Soon After RA Diagnosis
- More About Inflammation
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