| Description |
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints and organs that may produce voice and swallowing disorders. However, little is known regarding the true prevalence of voice and swallowing disorders in RA. This epidemiological investigation examined questionnaire responses from 100 individuals with RA to determine the frequency, severity, risks associated with, and socioemotional impact of voice and swallowing disorders in RA. Detailed medical, psychosocial, occupational, and lifestyle histories, as well as health, voice, and swallowing-related quality-of-life instruments were also included. The results were analyzed using summary statistics, frequencies, chi square tests, risk ratios, and associated confidence intervals (p < 0.05). The prevalence of a current voice disorder was 35%. The majority of these voice disorders began gradually (82.9%), and were chronic (85.7% persisting for more than 4 weeks). Forty-one percent of participants reported a current swallowing disorder, which began gradually (90.2%) and was chronic (82.9%). The most common voice symptoms included frequent throat-clearing, chronic throat dryness, hoarseness, and loss of singing range. Voice disorders were more common in those with sleep disorder, tension in the neck/throat or jaw, among those who were quiet, and among those who were physically inactive. The prevalence of a current voice disorder did not significantly differ across the levels of age, sex, severity of RA, race/ethnicity, income, or education. The most common swallowing symptoms included dry mouth, difficulty swallowing solids, coughing frequently during meals, needing to take smaller bites to swallow safely, and foods sticking in the throat. Risk factors for swallowing problems included thyroid problems, esophageal reflux, tension in shoulders or abdomen, experiencing voice problems with a job, and being physically inactive. Both voice and swallowing problems produced adverse effects on quality of life. These results indicate that voice and swallowing disorders are relatively common in RA. These results have important implications for the recognition and treatment of voice and swallowing disorders in this population. |
