Recurrent back pain may be a rheumatologic disorder.

World Axial Spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) Day is observed annually on the first Saturday in May to raise awareness of the condition and the physical, mental and emotional impact it has on people’s lives.

axial spondyloarthritis This is a type of arthritis of the spine. This causes inflammation between the joints of the vertebrae and the joints between the spine and pelvis.

The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the lower back or hip., although over time they may appear in other parts of the spine. The pain is typically worse during periods of rest or inactivity—at night or after prolonged sitting—and usually causes morning stiffness in the lower back that improves throughout the day.

Other symptoms may include:

• pain, stiffness and swelling in other joints;

• difficulty breathing due to pain caused by swollen joints connecting the affected ribs;

• changes in vision and pain in the eyes. Inflammation called uveitis also occurs in the eye;

• intermittent pain in the buttocks

• exhausted;

• loss of appetite and weight;

• rash;

• abdominal pain and loose stools.

Motto World Axial Spondyloarthritis Day this year Signs and symptomsproposed International Federation of Axial Spondyloarthritis (ASIF, English abbreviation). The goal is to focus on signs and symptoms, as early recognition and understanding of these indicators can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. Increased awareness can speed up diagnosis, ensure timely intervention and treatment, and ultimately improve the quality of life for people living with this disease. We hope that through this year’s theme, people will be able to recognize potential symptoms, seek treatment early, and create a supportive community that understands and addresses the challenges of axial spondyloarthritis.

“Early diagnosis is of utmost importance. Considering that this is a chronic disease and can be disabling for people suffering from it, early diagnosis allows timely treatment to be started and thus avoid complications in the future. Patients may experience peripheral joints (eg, knees, hips, ankles), vision, digestive tract, skin, and others.commented Dr. Hernan Maldonado FiccoRheumatologist at the Clinic del Sud, Head of the Department of Rheumatology at the Hospital of San Antonio de Padua (MP: 32234/4 – MN: 127156)

Diagnostics

The average time for diagnosing the disease is 7 years from the moment the first symptoms appear. During this period, permanent damage may occur if appropriate treatment is not given. In women, diagnosis may take another 3 years, as there is a misconception that axial spondyloarthritis primarily affects men.

What factors can increase the risk of developing the disease?

• Family history and genetics with HLA B27 present in some patients.

• Age. Most people develop symptoms before age 45.

• Sex. Men are more likely to suffer from axial spondyloarthritis than women.

• Other conditions. People with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, or uveitis may be more likely to develop this disease.

Late diagnosis delays access to adequate treatment for the disease and significantly affects the quality of life of patients. 64% of people with AxSpA suffer from depression, and 75% have difficulty finding work or are more likely to stop working.

“Various studies have shown that patients suffering from this pathology have a worse quality of life, they are more likely to refuse work and change their sexual relationships compared to healthy people. Low back pain has inflammatory characteristics, that is, it worsens at rest, wakes the patient at night, causes morning stiffness, and improves with exercise and taking NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). It is not disabling pain, but it decreases as the patient begins to move.”assured doctor Maldonado Ficco.

The goal of treatment is to maximize quality of life by controlling symptoms and signs of the disease, maintaining structural damage, and long-term functionality.

“Treatment for this pathology has improved significantly over the past 20 years.”. Current treatments consist of pharmacological treatment and non-pharmacological treatment such as physical activity, which is a fundamental element in controlling this disease. Regarding pharmacological treatment, patients usually start with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If there is no response, you should switch to another type of therapy, such as biologics or targeted oral medications that block various inflammatory mechanisms. Living with this disease can cause many problems and significantly affect the patient’s quality of life. “It is important to consult with a specialist and treat the disease early and effectively to improve clinical outcomes.”– concluded the professional.