Ankylosing Spondylitis Intensification: Identifying Signs and Coping Strategies
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness. Research from 2017 suggests that individuals with AS may experience up to three flare-ups within a three-month period, each lasting up to two weeks [1][2].
These flare-ups can manifest in two ways: localized and generalized.
Localized flare-ups are characterised by symptoms predominantly confined to a specific region, often the lower back or sacroiliac joints. Symptoms may include intensified pain and stiffness in one area, localized loss of mobility, and pain that improves with movement but worsens with rest [1][2].
On the other hand, generalized flare-ups involve widespread symptoms affecting multiple areas of the body simultaneously. These can present with diffuse pain and stiffness across multiple spinal segments and possibly other joints, fatigue, and potentially systemic symptoms such as appetite loss or mild systemic inflammation. Generalized flare-ups are usually more severe, encompassing multiple sites and systemic involvement, leading to higher overall disability and impact on quality of life [1][2].
The severity of localized AS flare-ups often ranges from mild to moderate, causing significant discomfort and temporary disability in the affected area. In contrast, generalized flare-ups are usually more severe, requiring more aggressive treatment and lasting longer [1][2].
Both types of flare-ups can have lasting effects, with long-term symptoms including continuing back pain, stiffness and pain in other joints, difficulty moving and with flexibility, uveitis, gastrointestinal issues, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and jaw pain and stiffness [1][2].
It's important to note that flare-ups can involve both physical symptoms, such as pain in the lower back and fatigue, as well as mental health symptoms, such as depression or anxiety [1][2]. Up to 30% of people living with AS develop uveitis, a condition that affects the middle layer of the eye [1][2].
People living with AS have an increased risk of developing depression or anxiety, and fatigue can be a sign of a flare-up and ongoing disease activity [1][2]. To help manage and prevent flare-ups, individuals are encouraged to take steps to manage their condition, stress levels, and fatigue [1][2].
Some steps a person can take include managing mental health, making plans for how to cope with a flare-up when they arise, taking time to rest during daily routines, following all treatment recommendations, getting regular exercise, and eating a balanced, nutritious diet [1][2].
In addition, about 10% of people living with AS develop inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and though AS typically affects the spine in the lower back and the pelvic region, it can also affect other joints [1][2]. About 15% of people with AS develop inflammation in the mouth and jaw [1][2].
Lastly, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the management of AS flare-ups often involves a combination of medication and therapies [1][2].
[1] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2021). Ankylosing Spondylitis. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/ankylosing-spondylitis
[2] Spondylitis Association of America. (2021). Ankylosing Spondylitis. Retrieved from https://www.spondylitis.org/resource/ankylosing-spondylitis/
- Research indicates that ankylosing spondylitis (AS) may lead to up to three flare-ups within a three-month period, each lasting up to two weeks, with generalized flare-ups involving widespread symptoms and potentially systemic symptoms such as fatigue and depression.
- Mental health symptoms, like depression or anxiety, can be associated with flare-ups in individuals living with AS, in addition to physical symptoms such as pain in the lower back and fatigue.
- To manage and prevent flare-ups, it's recommended to focus on various aspects of health and wellness, including mental health, stress management, and addressing fatigue, while also taking steps like following treatment recommendations, engaging in regular fitness and exercise, and eating a balanced diet.
- People with AS have an increased risk of developing other medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), neurological disorders, and skin disorders, which may require specific therapies and treatments.
- The use of medical-conditions management, workplace-wellness programs, and mental-health interventions can help improve quality of life for individuals living with AS, addressing chronic diseases, fitness and exercise, and mental-health challenges.
- To receive appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and care, it's essential for anyone experiencing symptoms associated with AS to consult with healthcare professionals, who may recommend a combination of medication and therapies tailored to the individual's needs, and work collectively to create effective strategies for managing flare-ups.
