Question
DOES RA EFFECT OR ENLARGE THE HEART. I AM 39 AND HAVE RA. I THOUGHT IT WAS CARPEL TUNNEL BUT AFTER SURGERY, I FOUND THAT I HAD RA.I HAVE NEVER TESTED POSITIVE FOR RA FACTOR. IS THIS NORMAL? A ECHO CARDOGRAM SHOWED SLIGHT ENLARGMENT OF THE HEART. I THOUGHT THAT MIGHT BE DUE TO GAINING 35 LBS I’M 6’4 AND 285 ANY SUGGESTIONS?
Answer
Congestive heart failure and myocardial infarctions (heart attacks) are more common in RA patients. Why this occurs is under study, including a study at Hopkins by Dr. Bathon. Inflammation may play a key role and there is evidence to suggest that more aggressive control of inflammation may decrease the risk of heart disease in RA patients.
An enlarged heart is not always due to heart fialure or heart atttacks. Athletes can have enlarged hearts. I might seek a consultation with a cardiologist to review your case.
