Newly Diagnosed With Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) Basics

- Chronic, inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine, but can also affect other joints and organs

- Autoimmune condition: The body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation

- Most commonly begins in the sacroiliac joints, which connect the lower spine to the pelvis

- Can cause inflammation and pain in the spine, leading to stiffness and eventually fusion (ankylosing) of the vertebrae

- May also affect peripheral joints, such as shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles

- Extra-articular manifestations: Inflammation can affect other organs, such as the eyes (uveitis), skin (psoriatic skin lesions), lungs (fibrosis), heart (aortic valve problems), and gastrointestinal tract (inflammatory bowel disease)

Newly Diagnosed: Next Steps

- Education: Learn as much as you can about AS, including symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle changes

- Find a rheumatologist: A specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of AS can develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your condition

- Medications: Several medications are available to reduce inflammation and pain, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and corticosteroids

- Exercise and physical therapy: Regular exercise can help improve flexibility, strength, and posture, while physical therapy can show you exercises and stretches to maintain joint mobility

- Lifestyle modifications: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, manage stress, and avoid smoking

- Emotional support: Connect with support groups or online communities to share your experiences, learn from others, and find emotional encouragement

Monitoring Disease Activity

- Regular check-ups with your rheumatologist: Monitor disease activity, discuss treatment progress, and make necessary adjustments

- Imaging tests: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound can help assess the extent of inflammation, damage, and progression of AS

- Laboratory tests: Blood tests, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), can indicate the level of inflammation in the body

Managing AS Over Time

- Follow your treatment plan consistently and adhere to your medication schedule

- Make gradual lifestyle changes and commit to regular exercise and physical therapy

- Work with your rheumatologist to manage flares, minimize pain, and prevent long-term complications

- Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in AS treatment through reputable sources