Can Arthritis Cause Fatigue? Exploring the Connection

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body starts to feel swollen and has severe pain. In this condition, the immune system starts attacking healthy tissues. This can cause swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints. Fatigue can also occur in rheumatoid arthritis. This fatigue can be severe, even affecting the entire routine. In such a situation, a person can feel tired despite resting.

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Most people with rheumatoid arthritis experience constant fatigue. According to a study conducted in 2007, about 50 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis have severe fatigue. Due to fatigue, they are not able to do even their daily work. Fatigue caused by rheumatoid arthritis can become chronic. The causes of fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis are as follows -

1. Inflammation
2. Anemia
3. Lack Of Sleep
4. Weakness And Weight Loss

Fatigue can badly affect people with rheumatoid arthritis. Due to fatigue, most people with RA are not able to do their daily tasks. Fatigue affects the daily routine of these people. Fatigue is no less than a challenge in people with RA -

• People with RA may feel more sleepy when they are tired. Due to this, they may avoid participating in any social activities and family life.
• Fatigue can make it difficult to perform daily tasks. These people may also find it difficult to concentrate on doing any work.
• People with RA cannot work for long hours. They need breaks from time to time.
• A 2002 study found that fatigue affects people with RA so much that they have to leave their jobs.

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Fatigue caused by rheumatoid arthritis can be treated in the following way -

• Medication For Anemia - If a patient is suffering from anemia, then the doctor can advise him to take iron-rich supplements.
• Sleeping Aids - If the patient is having difficulty sleeping, the doctor can prescribe medication to help them sleep. Some sleeping aids include lorazepam, zaleplon or zolpidem.
• Antidepressant Medication - If a person is facing mental health challenges, the doctor may advise them to take antidepressant medication.

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Fatigue can be a serious symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Fatigue can affect the entire life of those suffering from it. Joint pain, swelling, anemia and lack of sleep in RA can cause fatigue. In such a situation, proper lifestyle and getting arthritis treatment can help in reducing fatigue.