CORRELATION BETWEEN CHRONIC PAIN AND SLEEP DISORDERS IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

Chronic pain and sleep disorders are frequent manifestations in patients with rheumatologic diseases, especially in rheumatoid arthritis, leading to worsening quality of life, persistent fatigue, and increased pain perception. This interaction forms a vicious cycle, in which pain negatively interferes with sleep, and inadequate sleep increases pain sensitivity and promotes inflammation. Identifying this correlation is essential to optimize clinical management and reduce the functional and emotional impact on these patients’ lives. Objective: To analyze the correlation between chronic pain and sleep disorders in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, identifying the most prevalent types of sleep disturbances and the instruments used to assess both symptoms, as well as verifying whether pain treatment influences sleep quality. Methodology: This is an observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study with a quantitative approach.