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Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis, A Complete Guide
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that mostly affects the spine's joints. The disease known as arthritis causes your body's joints to deteriorate. The points in your body where two bones touch are referred to as joints.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are ankylosing spondylitis symptoms?
The most prevalent symptom of AS is discomfort in the lower back, which is caused by sacroiliitis, which is an inflammation that causes pain in the sacroiliac joints. The symptoms that are experienced by each individual who has ankylosing spondylitis are distinct from one another.
Some of the symptoms include:
- Stomach or abdominal ache
- Pain in the neck
- Discomfort in your buttocks
- Hip discomfort
Stiffness or difficulty bending your hips and lower back, particularly in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity,
- Breathing difficulty
- Fatigue
- Diarrhoea
- Issues with vision
- Rashes on the skin.
What causes ankylosing spondylitis?
Although the immune system is the source of ankylosing spondylitis, experts are unsure of its precise cause. When the immune system attacks the body rather than defending it, people are put at risk of developing autoimmune illnesses.
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Book an AppointmentHow do providers diagnose ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is diagnosed through a physical examination performed by a medical professional. The professional assesses your body and talks to you about your symptoms.
A rheumatologist is a physician who specializes in treating problems related to arthritis and other related conditions. There is no single test that can confirm whether you have AS. Your doctor may perform several tests to assist in diagnosing ankylosing spondylitis.
such as:
- Blood tests to detect HLA-B27 gene mutations.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- In order to detect symptoms of arthritis, radiographs of the spine and sacroiliac joint are required.
How is ankylosing spondylitis treated?
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is usually treated with a mix of medicine, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.
- AS can be managed with various medications, including NSAIDs, DMARDs, biologic agents, physical therapy, pain management methods, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
- Physical therapy, such as yoga, walking, and swimming, can enhance flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- It's crucial to make lifestyle adjustments, including stopping smoking, avoiding stressful activities, and maintaining good posture.
- NSAIDs can lessen pain and inflammation, such as naproxen and ibuprofen
- DMARDs, like methotrexate and sulfasalazine, suppress the immune system and can halt the course of AS.
- Biologic agents target immune system components involved in AS inflammation.
- Pain management methods like massage, heat, and cold therapy can relieve temporary stiffness.
- Surgery may be necessary for severe cases.
How do I take care of myself from Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Self-care is essential for managing ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and can improve treatment outcomes. Some self-care techniques include regular exercise, maintaining proper posture, using heat and cold therapy, pacing activities, stress management, maintaining a balanced diet, quitting smoking, getting enough sleep, staying informed about AS, and seeking support.
- Exercises like yoga, stretching, walking, and swimming can help maintain flexibility, strength, and mobility.
- Proper posture reduces the load on the spine and joints, while heat and cold therapy can relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- It is possible to lessen stress and enhance general health by maintaining a healthy weight.
- Quitting smoking can reduce symptoms and accelerate AS development.
- Pacing and taking pauses can help prevent overexertion and flare-ups of AS symptoms.
- Staying informed about AS and available treatments can help make informed decisions about healthcare.
- Stress management practices like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness can help manage stress levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. However, various treatments can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. These treatments may include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Yes, individuals with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can participate in gym workouts. It's important to exercise cautiously under the guidance of a medical professional or certified fitness trainer familiar with the condition. They can create a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to the specific needs and limitations of someone with AS.
Most people with ankylosing spondylitis experience muscle spasms in the lower back, typically during flare-ups or phases of increased symptoms. The intensity of these spasms can vary from day to day, ranging from tolerable discomfort to severe spasms that may even cause headaches.
Yes, it can affect other joints, such as the hips, shoulders, knees, and ankles. It may also involve entheses (where tendons and ligaments attach to bones), causing pain and swelling.
Yes, ankylosing spondylitis is associated with inflammation of the eyes (uveitis), which can cause redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Routine eye exams are advised for early identification and treatment.
Exercise is crucial in managing ankylosing spondylitis as it helps maintain flexibility, strength, and posture. Range-of-motion exercises, stretching, and aerobic activities such as swimming or walking can improve joint function and overall well-being.
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