Hi Krys,
I don't think RA and high cholesterol are specifically related. However, the general inflammation associated with RA can occur not just in joints and synovial tissue, but also in blood vessels and other tissue as well. Many studies have linked RA to a higher risk of greater damage associated heart attacks and strokes, because of this systemic inflammation occurring in the blood vessels. I have written several shreposts on cardiovascular issues and their association with RA, and also several on dietary and lifestyle changes that can help reduce this general inflammation in the body (like eating foods with Omega-3 fatty acids such as dalmon and flax seed/oil).
I hope this is helpful.
Christine
RA doesn't directly cause high cholesterol. It is very important that you have a team to help correct this. And by team I mean your primary doctor and your rheumatologist need to work together to fix this issue. If you are having problems with high Cholesterol you need to really talk to your primary doctor on what course of action to take. The diet a lot of doctors will put you on for high cholesterol will actually benefit your RA as well. If you can, eat a lot of fish which is high in Omega 3 fatty acids. This will not only help with your cholesterol, but it will help with your RA as Omega 3 fatty acids have natural inflammation reducers in them. Good luck and best wishes!
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