Rheumatoid arthritis with involvement of other organs and systems Save
ICD-10 code: M05.6
Chapter: Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
Rheumatoid arthritis with involvement of other organs and systems
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. However, it can also affect other organs and systems in the body. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and damage. In some cases, RA can cause severe complications that affect the lungs, heart, eyes, and other organs.
Here are some of the organs and systems that can be affected by RA:
- Lungs: RA can cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. This condition is known as rheumatoid lung disease. It can cause scarring of the lungs, which can lead to severe disability and even death.
- Heart: RA can increase the risk of heart disease. Inflammation can damage the heart muscle, leading to heart failure and other complications.
- Eyes: RA can cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to dryness, redness, and sensitivity to light. It can also cause more severe eye conditions, such as scleritis and uveitis.
- Blood vessels: RA can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, leading to a condition called vasculitis. This can cause damage to the blood vessels and organs they supply, leading to serious complications.
- Nervous system: RA can cause inflammation in the nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness.
If you have RA, it’s important to work with your doctor to manage your symptoms and prevent complications. Your doctor may recommend medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise and a healthy diet.
In conclusion, RA is a complex disease that can affect many organs and systems in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications and improving quality of life. If you have RA, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.