Key Factors To The Diagnosis Of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Blood tests could indicate a genetic marker. One more inclusive blood test called the sedimentation rate is a comprehensive marker that is often elevated through an inflammatory response such as AS.C-Reactive protein test may also be ordered as part of the review.
Review of symptoms, along with analysis of the back and pelvis X-rays, of which could reflect abnormalities of the spine.
Measurement documentation of the chest through breathing.
Urinalysis is completed to exclude kidney conditions and any abnormalities that may influence back pain similar to AS.
Physical exam could show the slow range of movement in the joints and signs of the inflammation, along with examining the eyes for inflammation as well.
Few Key Factors Where AS May Be The Indicator Of The Inflammatory Back Pain:
Restless sleep
Rest does not help the symptoms
Experiencing stiffness in the am, but subsides with movement
Having back pain occur before age 40 and not as part of any other impairment
It has occurred for a period longer than 3 months
Researchers indicated in some cases that it can be years before AS is diagnosed and no cure has been established at this time.
Several Ways That Ankylosing Spondylitis Can Be Alleviated With Treatment Are:
Exercise – Setting a daily regimen to continue the movement of the joints will reduce the risk of disability and help alleviate the stiffness. One of the best exercises is swimming. By doing additional exercises with deeper breaths will keep the chest case versatile.
Physical therapy will aid in reducing deformity and maintaining mobility.
Apply heat or warm shower will help alleviate the pain and joint resistance that may occur in the morning.
The doctor may prescribe disease-modifying ant rheumatic drugs, in addition to NSAIDs to help reduce the pain and inflammation but that would be in moderate to severe cases. Generally, NSAIDs alleviate the pain and pressure in the joints. Cymbalta helps with chronic pain, and has been FDA approved as well as steroid injections is another helpful treatment.
Surgery to replace the joint may be another option affecting the hips and knee region for those with advanced joint disease.
There Are Ways To Improve AS Just By Simple Changes In Your Life:
Adjusting to a firm mattress while lying with your back straight will alleviate some pressure. Keep in mind to not have large pillows under your head and neck to avoid neck fusion and not elevating your legs so that you don’t incur hip or knee fusion. Choose areas that don’t put you in a slouching positions and best to use chairs with arms to give you additional support.
Discontinue smoking or chew any tobacco products as it has been known to increase symptoms. Those who currently smoke with AS have additional damage to the spine vs. those who didn’t smoke with the same level of disease activity. This includes a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
Avoid doing any jumping or movement that may feel like falling as those with AS can easily hurt their necks or back.
Conclusion
While there is no prevention, cure and once it has occurred it can’t be reversed. There are several ways to alleviate symptoms and still maintain a comfortable life, while living with AS.
The best way to manage the progression is to continue doctor visits for close monitoring and continue daily exercise to maintain flexibility.
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