Smoking bad for arthritis patients

Cigarette smoking may worsen rheumatoid arthritis in those diagnosed with the inflammatory joint disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissue lining the joints, causing inflammation, pain, stiffness and loss of function. To examine if or not smoking deteriorates the condition of those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, researchers from America identified 300 adult African-Americans with rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers monitored the smoking status and lifestyle factors of the participants. It was found that those who smoked were more likely to have growths under the skin known as nodules, which are often associated with more severe rheumatoid arthritis. Smokers also tended to have higher blood levels of certain rheumatoid factor auto-antibodies - immune system proteins directed at the body's tissue. The above findings suggest that smokers with rheumatoid arthritis might improve their outlook by kicking the habit, but further studies are still needed to confirm this relationship.

DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.

Was this Article Helpful Yes or No

Web Stories

Summer Foods For Strong Immunity

7 Blood Thinning Foods For Healthy Heart

How To Take Care Of Mental Health?

Benefits Of Aerial Yoga

Tips To Avoid Conjunctivitis

8 Yoga Poses For Kids To Help Increase Height

Must Try Tips To Build Stamina

Lemon: A Multipurpose Starter Pack

Yoga Asanas To Release Negative Thoughts

Ways To Deal With Anxiety