More than half (50 - 70%) of patients are able to work full-time.
After 15-20 years, 10% of patients are severely disabled, and unable to do simple daily living tasks such as washing, dressing, and eating.
The average life expectancy for a patient with RA may be shortened by 3 to 7 years. Those with severe forms of RA may die 10-15 years earlier than expected. However, as treatment for rheumatoid arthritis improves, severe disability and life-threatening complications appear to be decreasing.
Complications
Rheumatoid arthritis is not solely a disease of joint destruction. It can involve almost all organs.
A life-threatening joint complication can occur when the cervical spine becomes unstable as a result of RA.
Rheumatoid vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) is a serious , potentially life-threatening complication of RA. It can lead to skin ulcerations and infections, bleeding stomach ulcers, and nerve problems that cause pain, numbness, or tingling. Vasculitis may also affect the brain, nerves, and heart, which can cause stroke, heart attack, or heart failure.
RA may cause the the outer lining of the heart to swell (pericarditis) and cause heart complications. Inflammation of heart muscle, called myocarditis, can also develop. Both of these conditions can lead to congestive heart failure.
The treatments for RA can also cause serious side effects. If you experience any side effects, immediately tell your health care provider.
Fortunately, better therapies appear to be reducing the occurrence of these severe complications.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you think you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
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