About 96,000 people are suffering in Spain ankylosing spondyloarthritis According to the EPISER study. We are talking about one of more than 200 rheumatic diseases described.
Connected
this is a chronic inflammatory disease Which affects the joints of the spine. As a result of this distortion, vertebrae They fuse together, causing stiffness in the spine and limiting mobility.Explain the experts of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology (SER).
Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis
this is exactly it hardness main symptoms Of ankylosing spondyloarthritis.
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In general, The discomfort usually starts in the lower back. (sacroiliac joint), which extends to the rest of the spine and which causes pain And this decreased neck mobility And the back and rib cage in general,” explains the rheumatologist.
But since in medical language it is called a systemic diseaseWhich means that it affects the entire body, its consequences may not even be related to the bones.
This much ankylosing spondyloarthritisAsThey tell SER,In some patients it may also be caused by:
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“loss of appetite
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can cause fever
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Tiredness
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“Even organs such as the lungs and heart become inflamed, although the latter occurs very rarely.”
In addition, rheumatologists point out that A quarter of patients also usually suffer from uveitis(Swelling of the eyes).
How is the disease diagnosed and how does it develop
In general, rheumatology specialists are able to make a diagnosis based on the symptoms and physical examination presented by the patient.
A X-rays help confirm inflammation of the spinal joints, but In some cases, this test is not sufficient since “radiological changes” appearing late More or less large in relation to the onset of symptoms,” says the expert.
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Ankylosing spondylarthritis, on the other hand It develops through outbreaks of inflammation, and between outbreaks, symptoms go away.as the pain subsides, and the patient continues to lead his normal life.
And, as SER experts assure:
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“Usually the passage of time works in the patient’s favor, as flare-ups become more distant and mild with age.”
There is another aspect to keep in mind and that is, fortunately, today It is not common for ankylosing spondylitis to become severe today.“That is, all the vertebrae become fused together, rendering the person immovable and rigid.”
And the faster it is diagnosed, the earlier it can be treated and its progression can be halted.
According to Dr. Uruticochea, Rheumatologist From SON Espaces University Hospital (Palma de Mallorca).
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“Although diagnostics in this area have improved, there are still some delays as early identification of these patients is not always easy. fundamental aspect of treatment success and that will determine A good long-term prognosis is to be able to make an early diagnosis. To be able to provide the most appropriate treatment as quickly as possible.”
so Dr. Sagrario Bustabad, The President of SER points out that it is essential to guarantee a prompt approach to these diseases, a situation that is currently “seriously damaged” shortage of experts in Rheumatology which our country is suffering from.
Is Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis Curable?
Although Ankylosing spondyloarthritis cannot be cured Are there medicines and treatments to treat symptoms such as pain or problems with movement?
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On the one hand, anti-inflammatory drugs have a fundamental role against pain and inflammation.
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On the other hand, patients receive the necessary help of physical rehabilitation, physical and respiratory exercises aimed at strengthening the back.
To this end, rheumatology experts emphasize adding daily exercise like swimming to promote shoulder and hip mobility.
(TagstoTranslate)Rheumatology(T)Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis