Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. For those of us living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), breathing well isn’t always as simple as inhaling fresh air and feeling renewed. RA doesn’t just affect the joints; it can also touch areas we might not expect—like the nose, sinuses, and lungs. Over time, inflammation can subtly affect the respiratory system, making it important to pay attention to even small changes in how we breathe.
In this post, we’ll journey from the nose—our first gateway to air—down to the lungs, exploring how RA can influence this vital process. Along the way, we’ll discuss symptoms to watch for, natural and medical supports, and ways that can anchor us when we feel breathless, both physically and spiritually.
From the Nose: The First Step in Breathing
Our noses do much more than hold our glasses in place! They filter, warm, and humidify the air before it enters our lungs. But with RA, the nasal passages can sometimes become affected in ways that impact our comfort and breathing.
Possible Nasal Effects of RA:
- Dryness: RA or medications like methotrexate can dry out nasal passages, making them more prone to irritation or nosebleeds.
- Sinus Inflammation: Chronic inflammation may lead to frequent sinus discomfort or infections.
- Mucus Changes: Some people notice thicker or stickier mucus, which can block airflow.
What You Can Do:
- Use a saline nasal spray or rinse to keep passages moist.
- Avoid overly dry indoor environments—humidifiers can help, especially in winter.
- Stay hydrated, as proper fluid intake helps maintain mucus balance.
Down the Airway: Throat and Trachea
After passing through the nose, air moves down the throat and into the trachea. Inflammation in this region isn’t as common, but for some with RA, autoimmune inflammation can affect the voice box (larynx) or the cartilage of the trachea, causing:
- Hoarseness
- A sense of tightness in the throat
- Mild swallowing discomfort
Gentle vocal rest, hydration, and speaking to your doctor if symptoms persist are key steps here.
Reaching the Lungs: When RA Affects Deeper Breathing
The lungs are where the real magic of oxygen exchange happens, but RA can sometimes bring complications. While not everyone with RA will face lung-related symptoms, studies show that certain lung issues are more common in people with autoimmune conditions.
Possible Lung Effects:
- Shortness of Breath: May be linked to anemia, inflammation, or lung tissue changes.
- Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): A rare but serious condition where lung tissue becomes scarred.
- Pleural Inflammation: The lining around the lungs can become inflamed, causing sharp chest pain when breathing in deeply.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath during daily activities
- Chest discomfort
RA, Breathing, and Fatigue
Shortness of breath can be exhausting, both physically and mentally. Even mild breathing difficulties can make simple activities—like climbing stairs or carrying groceries—feel harder. This fatigue can also affect emotional wellbeing, making us feel frustrated or discouraged.
Supporting Your Breathing—Naturally and Medically
The good news is that there are ways to care for your respiratory health even with RA.
Lifestyle and Home Supports
- Breathing Exercises: Techniques like pursed-lip breathing or diaphragmatic breathing can help keep your lungs strong.
- Gentle Movement: Light stretching or walking helps expand the lungs and improve circulation.
- Air Quality: Avoid smoke, heavy pollution, or strong chemical fumes.
Medical Support
- Speak to your rheumatologist if you have persistent breathing changes.
- Regular check-ups can help catch lung involvement early.
- Imaging (like X-rays or CT scans) may be recommended if symptoms progress.
Faith and the Breath of Life
In Scripture, breath often symbolizes life itself. Genesis 2:7 says, “Then the LORD God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” Breath is a gift, a reminder that each inhale is sustained by the One who gives us life.
When breathing feels hard, physically or emotionally, we can lean on the Holy Spirit—often described in the Bible as the very breath of God—to renew and strengthen us. Even in moments of shortness of breath, we can whisper prayers and let God’s peace calm our hearts.
🌐 Further Reading & Resources
If today’s verse spoke to you, here are a few encouraging resources that may deepen your reflection and support your wellness:
- Explore Job 33:4 in different translations: Read on BibleGateway.
- Daily encouragement: The YouVersion Bible App makes it easy to carry scripture and devotionals wherever you go.
- Faith reflections: Our Daily Bread offers short daily readings that connect scripture to everyday life.
- Breathing for wellness: The Arthritis Foundation shares simple breathing exercises to ease tension and support overall health.
- Natural wellness products: Find calming teas, lung support, and natural remedies at Faithful to Nature.
A Simple Breathing Devotional Practice
When you feel anxious, tired, or physically winded:
- Breathe in deeply—silently say, “The Lord is my strength.”
- Breathe out slowly—silently say, “I will not be afraid.”
- Repeat for a few minutes, letting each breath remind you of His presence.
Closing Prayer
Lord, You are the very breath of life. You see when breathing feels hard for me—whether from physical strain or emotional burdens. Teach me to rest in Your presence and to breathe in Your peace. Strengthen my lungs, my body, and my faith so I can continue walking the path You’ve set before me. May every breath I take be an offering of gratitude to You. Amen. 🙏🏻
Next in This Series
In our next post, we’ll explore how RA affects circulation and the heart, continuing our journey through the body and offering practical tips, medical insights, and spiritual encouragement.
