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Can RA Cause Dementia?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Kilmarnock, VA

Can RA cause dementia?

March 6, 2022
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members explored whether rheumatoid arthritis can cause dementia, with many sharing personal experiences of brain fog, forgetfulness, and... Read more

Members explored whether rheumatoid arthritis can cause dementia, with many sharing personal experiences of brain fog, forgetfulness, and cognitive struggles that made them wonder about the connection. Several members offered possible explanations, including chronic pain processing, medication side effects, stress, and inflammation, with one member sharing an article suggesting research does show a link between RA and certain forms of dementia. A recurring theme was the importance of asking doctors directly, staying mentally active through games and puzzles, and finding humor and community support while navigating cognitive changes that often feel frustrating or frightening.

A myRAteam Member

I heard from my pain management doctor, our brains process pain first as a safety measure. Many people with chronic illness experience a lack of cognitive function. Also, as some of you have mentioned, we are practically walking pharmacies. Does it cause dementia, no. But it does compromise our brain.

@A myRAteam Member definitely part of your charming personality.

@A myRAteam Member, I think you are right.

@A myRAteam Member, I hope you had a good laugh?

👏 😂 🤗

March 7, 2022
A myRAteam Member

Hi Charles, bet we'll get a bunch of different answers from the doctors.

March 7, 2022
A myRAteam Member

I think that we have many factors, you all mentioned them in the previous answers, that would contribute to "brain fog". Stress, multi-medications, pain can all be culprits. Does all this cause dementia? That is a very good question. We should all ask our doctors.

March 7, 2022
A myRAteam Member

Hello all, I need to eat my words. I just read this great article that explores the link between RA and dementia. It's a quick read:

https://www.rheumatologyadvisor.com/home/rheuma...

You may have to copy and paste to your search engine.

March 9, 2022
A myRAteam Member

Good question. Many complain of brain fog.

March 8, 2022

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