Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic rheumatic disease, also known as inflammatory hip and spine rheumatism. Although the disease is seen in both genders, it is more severe in men. The typical age at which the disease begins is in the 20s. If left untreated, the disease has disabling properties.
What are the complaints of Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients?
The disease usually starts in the 20s and the most important complaint is at night or in the morning. It is the pain in the hip and waist that occurs. Another important feature of this pain is that the complaints decrease with movement. Pain in the morning that lasts until tomorrow is typical. Apart from hip and lower back pain, the disease can also occur in other joints. It may manifest itself with pain and swelling in the knee joint, ankle joint and shoulder joint. Some patients may experience complaints such as pain and swelling in the heels.
Although ankylosing spondylitis mostly causes joint discomfort, it can also involve organs such as the eyes and intestines. For example, inflammation of the eye layers, called uveitis, can sometimes be the first symptom of the disease.
How is the Disease Diagnosed?
Ankylosing Spondylitis is one of the common diseases in society. As I mentioned above, the most important complaints are pain and stiffness at night and in the morning. The patient may present with swelling in other joints or eye symptoms. The patient with these complaints is diagnosed through examination, blood tests and, more importantly, imaging methods such as x-ray or magnetic resonance (MRI). In some selected cases, HLA B27 genetic testing helps in diagnosis. In summary, imaging methods in patients with appropriate complaints Diagnosis is made with the contribution of.
How is the Treatment of the Disease Done?
Treatment in ankylosing spondylitis patients depends on the severity of the disease and the condition of the patients, as in our other diseases. Not every patient is given the same treatment. For most patients, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are the first choice. We can use biological treatment drugs in cases where the disease will be severe or resistant.
Although drug therapy is a method we frequently use, we often request lifestyle changes in patients. We definitely recommend a sports activity such as exercise or swimming. It is also recommended to lose excess weight and not smoke.
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