Chronic, longstanding swallowing disorders are common in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and appear to increase with disease severity, a recent study found. Those individuals with dysphagia reported greater reductions in quality of life as compared to those without, highlighting the need for improved awareness, exploration, and management of swallowing disorders in this population. 100 individuals with RA (84 women, 16 men; mean age=61.1 years, SD=13.1) were interviewed regarding the presence, nature, and impact of swallowing symptoms and disorders. Associations between swallowing disorders, medical factors, RA disease severity, and quality of life were examined. Researchers found:

• 41% percent of participants reported a current swallowing disorder that began gradually and was longstanding (most experiencing symptoms on a daily basis for at least 4 years).
• Symptoms compatible with solid food dysphagia contributed disproportionately to reporting a current swallowing disorder.
• Risk factors for dysphagia included a self-reported voice disorder, thyroid problems, esophageal reflux, and being physically inactive.
• Swallowing disorders increased with self-reported RA disease severity and contributed to a significantly greater burden on overall quality of life.