SYMPTOMS OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS (RA): VOCAL CORDS AND HEART
Vocal Cords
Another rare complication of RA is involvement of the joints of the vocal cords (cricoarytenoid joints). Usually there are no symptoms when this occurs, although some persons experience hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, a feeling of fullness in the throat, or pain radiating toward the ear. This complication is usually evaluated and treated by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.
The Heart
The heart is infrequently involved in RA, and when the heart is affected, most people experience no symptoms. When inflammation involves the membranous sac enclosing the heart (the pericardium), however, the person may experience symptoms similar to those of pleurisy. This condition is called pericarditis. In rare situations, a significant amount of fluid accumulates around the heart, in a condition called pericardial effusion. This condition usually responds to medications (corticosteroids) and only rarely requires drainage of the fluid. Other parts of the heart are rarely involved in RA.
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