For many arthritis sufferers, protecting tender, sore joints is the first priority in living with arthritis. However, recent studies by the Arthritis Foundation have linked certain types of arthritis with atherosclerosis, the thickening and hardening of the arteries.
Atherosclerosis is caused by the deposit of substances in the artery s inner lining.
These substances can include blood platelets, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular waste products, which combine to form a sludge called plaque. There are several explanations as to why people with RA or lupus may be at a greater risk for the disease. The simplest explanation is that people with arthritis tend to be less active because of the pain in their joints. This inactivity can lead to obesity and poor circulation, resulting in blockage in the arteries. Another explanation contributes some of the medications used to treat arthritis as causing atherosclerosis.