Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can indeed cause lung disease. Here are some key points:

- Types of Lung Diseases Associated with RA
- Interstitial Lung Disease (RA-ILD): Inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathlessness and dry cough.
- Rheumatoid Nodules: Lumps in the lungs.
- Bronchiolitis Obliterans: Show Full Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can indeed cause lung disease. Here are some key points:

- Types of Lung Diseases Associated with RA:
- Interstitial Lung Disease (RA-ILD): Inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathlessness and dry cough.
- Rheumatoid Nodules: Lumps in the lungs.
- Bronchiolitis Obliterans: Blockage of small airways.
- Pleural Effusions: Fluid buildup around the lungs.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: High blood pressure in the lungs.
- Pulmonary Fibrosis: Scarring of lung tissue.

- Prevalence:
- About 1 in 10 people with RA will develop lung problems.
- 40% of people with RA have symptoms outside their joints, including in the lungs.

- Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Dry cough

- Diagnosis:
- Lung scans (X-ray or high-resolution CT scan)
- Pulmonary function tests
- Lung biopsy

- Treatment:
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Regular monitoring and management of RA medications

- Risk Factors:
- Environmental exposure (e.g., tobacco smoke)
- Active rheumatoid arthritis
- Accelerated aging process

For more detailed information, you can refer to the sources provided in my knowledge base.

 This AI-generated response comes from myRAteam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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