Problems with thinking, memory, and concentration are some of the more prevalent issues in people who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These symptoms, also collectively termed brain fog, can appear in people that suffer from chronic inflammatory issues, including sclerosis, Sjorgren’s syndrome, and RA. Read on to find out if rheumatoid arthritis causes brain fog in people.
Is There a Connection Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cognitive Dysfunction?
It’s mostly believed by doctors that RA has an impact on one’s cognitive ability, memory, and clarity of thought. There are also others that believe otherwise and that brain fog is not a serious implication. In a study conducted by the CDC on 6,000 participants, it was shown that there was little to no difference in cognitive function for people with or without RA. The findings showed that RA wasn’t necessarily the only risk factor for cognitive dysfunction, among other independent risk factors like depression, poverty, and a sedentary lifestyle.
In more recent studies, it was however suggested that increased levels of inflammation similar to that in RA could potentially worsen cognitive function. Although the sample size of the study on brain function and RA is relatively small, it indicates a common occurrence – that people suffering from RA perform significantly poorly in cognitive tests than those without.
Other Causes of Brain Fog
- Depression – Depression is a very common symptom in those with RA or have brain fog. Sufferers may face problems in remembering things, making decisions, or planning. It’s very difficult for medical experts to provide a clear explanation or differentiate between the two issues.
- Pain – Chronic pain caused by RA could affect brain functioning. As the regions in the brain that process pain also deals with attention and memory, hence hampering one’s ability to think.
- A lack of exercise – Research has shown that physical activity can boost the brain’s health. Whereas a 15-to-30-minute job is sufficient in enhanced brain function and overall energy.
- Cardiovascular disease – It’s found that RA increases one’s risk of having blocked arteries in the brain due to severe inflammation. It also increases the chance of having a stroke or heart attack, but experts believe it could worsen cognitive function or lead to brain fog.
- Medications – Regularly taking medications such as corticosteroids and methotrexate to combat pain from RA may lead to a variety of issues like confusion, mood swings, and other cognitive issues. These problems though appear to occur more in women than men after high doses of corticosteroids.
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