Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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peppyest 01/15/2016

I've had RA for about 14 yrs and basically non responder to meds.Today I found out I have some kind of restrictive lung disease going on,Haven't yet talked to my rheumatologist about it yet.
Do any of you RA in your lungs and if so what are the symptoms?
The chest xray didn't show any nodules.The pulmonary function tests showed the restrictive stuff.Thx all.

51percent 01/15/2016

The lungs are covered by the pleural membrane...ever heard of pleurisy? But the pleura are types of synovial membranes and can be come inflamed just like the synovial membranes in our joints. Chronic inflammation can lead to thickening of the membrane and that restricts movement of the lungs. I know a CT of the chest can show pleural fibrosis..the thickening of that membrane.

So it looks like you need to find something that helps your Ra, even if it means the old fashioned gold infusions of yesterday. They do help. When all else fails in this day of modern drugs, sometimes the older stuff can be your best bet.

hugs..........Jen

2leftfeet 01/15/2016

I am seeing a hematologist/oncologist. I mentioned that sometimes I have problems breathing - something I probably should have mentioned to my Rheumatologist. I had a chest X-ray, nothing showed up. The dr then ordered a CT scan, and a nodule did show up. The radiologist and the oncologist do not feel it is a problem, will keep an eye on it. I am getting a 2nd CT scan in March as a follow up.

peppyest 01/16/2016

Thx for these helpfull replies ,love this site.Best,Kathy

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