People who smoke are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are less likely to respond to RA treatment. Smoking can also intensify symptoms and lead to additional health complications.

Smoking may affect the way that your immune system functions, especially if you have certain conditions that increase your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

A 2020 study found that smoking may alter the way your body responds to some RA medications. The study found that less favorable responses to certain medications were associated with the smoking habits of the participants.

If you need surgery for RA, smoking may increase your risk of complications. It can affect your:

Read on to learn more about how smoking impacts RA, as well as tips for smoking cessation.

Here are some of the links between RA and smoking:

You’re more likely to develop RA if you smoke

Studies show that both environmental and hereditary factors may play a role in the development of RA. Smoking is considered an environmental factor, which puts you at a higher risk of RA.

Additionally, research from 2020 found that smoking 1 to 10 packs a day was associated with a 26% increased risk of developing RA.

You’re less likely to respond to RA treatments if you smoke

Studies show that people who smoke are less likely to respond to anti-TNF-a drugs and to methotrexate, which are both RA treatments.

Methotrexate decrease pain and swelling, and anti-TNF drugs work to block inflammation. A decreased response to these drugs may mean that you experience more pain as a result.

Smoking can worsen RA symptoms

A 2018 study found that smoking can increase the disease activity and severity of RA. According to the study, smoking can cause increased joint inflammation and swelling.

Smoking may be a calming mechanism, and it may help distract you from the pain of RA. But smoking can lead to a number of other health issues.

If you smoke, consider quitting to help reduce your risk of health complications.

Here are some tips to help you on your journey to quit smoking:

Speak with your doctor

Your doctor can talk with you about the different options that are available.

There are focus groups related to quitting, and there are also medications available with and without a prescription that can help you quit.

Have a plan

Having a plan can help you be prepared for cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It can also help you set realistic expectations and stay motivated throughout your process.

Pick the day

Picking a day to quit is a key step in the process.

If you pick a day that’s too soon, you may not have enough time to prepare. But if you pick a day too far away, that leaves the opportunity to change your mind about quitting.

Tell someone

If your friends and loved ones are aware you want to quit, they may avoid smoking around you or offering you cigarettes. They can also provide much-needed support through your journey to quit smoking.

Find other activities

There are a number of ways you can distract yourself when you feel an urge to smoke. It may help to make a list of these actions, so you are prepared when you feel an urge. Some potential action items can include:

Know what to expect

Nicotine is the ingredient that makes tobacco a habit-forming substance, so your body will go through withdrawal when you quit.

In addition to feeling the urge to smoke, some withdrawal symptoms can include:

If you struggle with these symptoms, talk with your doctor. They may be able to help you deal with your symptoms and inform you of available resources that can help.

Keep going

It may take several tries before you quit smoking for good, and that’s OK. If your first plan doesn’t work, try a different one, and keep going until you find the best plan for you.

Quitting smoking can improve your RA symptoms, response to medication, and your quality of life. It can also reduce your risk of developing RA.

If you are having difficulty quitting, know that help is available.

Your doctor can tell you about nearby smoking cessation programs, as well as other resources, and work with you to create the best plan for your individual needs.