People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may have a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – an autoimmune disease that affects the joints.
According to a new study, chronic acid reflux could be a contributing factor to the onset of this autoimmune condition, emphasising the importance of managing reflux disease not just for immediate relief, but also for long-term health.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
This immune response primarily targets the synovium – the lining of the membranes that surround the joints – leading to painful swelling, joint damage, and in severe cases, deformities. Over time, RA can also affect other systems in the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels
Reflux connection
The recent study – ‘Gastroesophageal reflux disease increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomisation study’ – published in Scientific Reports uses a method called Mendelian randomisation.
This method that uses genetic data to explore whether a particular condition (like GERD) might directly cause another condition (like RA), rather than just being associated with it.
The study found that individuals with a genetic predisposition to GERD also have an increased risk of developing RA. The findings suggest that chronic inflammation caused by acid reflux may trigger or exacerbate an autoimmune response, contributing to the development of RA.
This is significant because it points to GERD as more than just a digestive issue – it could be a factor in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Chronic inflammation
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (oesophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your oesophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation and chest pain.
One of the key factors linking GERD to RA is chronic inflammation. When stomach acid repeatedly damages the oesophagus, it creates a state of ongoing inflammation. This persistent inflammation can disrupt the immune system, potentially leading to autoimmune conditions like RA.
Furthermore, GERD can cause changes in the microbiome of the digestive tract. These changes in gut bacteria may influence the body’s immune response, possibly contributing to the development of RA. The study’s findings support the idea that GERD, through its inflammatory effects and potential impact on the microbiome, could be a contributing factor in the onset of RA.
Why early diagnosis matters
Early diagnosis and management of GERD could be key to reducing the risk of developing related conditions like RA. If you’re experiencing symptoms of GERD, it’s important to take them seriously and seek appropriate treatment.
Peptest is a simple, non-invasive test that can help diagnose reflux disease by detecting pepsin in saliva – a key indicator of reflux. By identifying GERD early, Peptest can help you take control of your condition before it leads to more serious complications.
Using Peptest for early diagnosis enables you to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. By managing GERD effectively from the start, you can reduce your risk of developing complications like RA and improve your overall quality of life.
Peptest detects pepsin — the stomach enzyme that marks reflux — in a saliva sample. Collected at home, analysed in our UK laboratory, results back within 48 hours.
- Results in 48 hours
- No GP referral needed
- UK laboratory
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