Categories: The Charlton Centre

Is sleep apnea worse in people with rheumatoid arthritis?

At a recent conference of the American College of Rheumatology, research was presented regarding the incidence of sleep apnea in people with rheumatoid arthritis.  Many people complain of poor sleep who  have arthritic pain.  Joint problems and finding a comfortable position during sleep are often the cause.  However, it has been found that cartilage changes can contribute to the airflow in the nasal passages which can result in sleep apnea and therefore people with rheumatoid arthritis experience sleep apnea at a greater rate than the general public.  As a result of having sleep apnea,  a person can waken feeling less rested and not be aware of the reduced oxygen they are receiving while they are sleep.

If you are having difficulty sleeping and feel unrested when you waken, ask your doctor about referring you for a sleep apnea assessment.


Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health.  Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.

admin

Recent Posts

Saphnelo for Lupus

Saphnelo (anifrolumab) is a one-of-a-kind therapy by AstraZeneca for the treatment of moderate to severe…

2 weeks ago

A New Treatment Option for Alopecia Areata

On December 4, 2023, Health Canada approved Pfizer’s Litfulo (ritlecitinib). Litfulo is a once-daily oral…

1 month ago

Infliximab Now Available As An Injection for Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Patients

Infliximab is a protein-based medication referred to as a biologic that treats many immune-mediated conditions. …

2 months ago

A New Treatment For Ulcerative Colitis

On October 3rd, 2023, Health Canada approved Eli Lilly’s newest biologic for the treatment of…

2 months ago

Show Love to your Heart

As February is heart month, today is an excellent occasion to really show why we love our hearts and…

3 months ago

Charlton Infusion Clinic Expansion

To better serve our Hamilton and area patients, we have expanded and moved our Stoney…

3 months ago