The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Rheumatoid Arthritis

In regards to cures for both of the conditions, the solutions are very dissimilar, in that sleep apnea holds the possibility to be truly cured, whereas rheumatoid arthritis does not have a cure at this time.  This being said, a rheumatoid arthritis patient must be diligent in their daily habits in order to steer clear of developing sleep apnea.  In the case of sleep apnea, the two possibilities for a cure consist of weight loss or surgery.  Heavy weight contributes to sleep apnea, specifically obstructive sleep apnea, due to the higher likelihood of the airways being crowded.

The study serves an important purpose from the perspective of a patient with either rheumatoid arthritis, sleep apnea, or both.  Patients must be diligent in maintaining said conditions, as this will decrease the likelihood of obtaining another medical condition.  More specifically, individuals with either conditions have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular disease.  Managing one's habits, such as eating well and exercising, can serve as a very easy way to prevent the development of new conditions, and serve as a foundation for an ultimately more fulfilled way to live one’s life.