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    Ankylosing Spondylitis

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    Henry Kaweesa
    Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae. It has no known cause but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining mobility through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

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    Ankylosing Spondylitis

    Uploaded by

    Henry Kaweesa
    51 views3 pages
    Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae. It has no known cause but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining mobility through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

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    ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS

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    Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae. It has no known cause but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining mobility through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

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    © All Rights Reserved
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    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    51 views3 pages

    Ankylosing Spondylitis

    Uploaded by

    Henry Kaweesa
    Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae. It has no known cause but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining mobility through medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

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    © All Rights Reserved
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    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
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    ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS (AS)

    Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of chronic inflammatory arthritis that primarily

    affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (the joints that connect the base of the spine to the

    pelvis). It falls under the category of spondyloarthritis, a group of related inflammatory

    diseases.

    Definition: Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects

    the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the vertebrae.

    Causes: The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, but it is believed to involve a

    combination of genetic and environmental factors. A specific gene called HLA-B27 is

    strongly associated with AS, but not everyone with this gene develops the condition.

    Risk Factors:

     Genetics: A family history of AS increases the risk.

     HLA-B27 gene: Presence of the HLA-B27 gene is a significant risk factor.

     Gender: Men are more commonly affected than women.

     Age: Symptoms often appear in late adolescence or early adulthood.

    Pathophysiology: Ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the entheses, which are the areas

    where tendons and ligaments attach to bone. Chronic inflammation at these sites can lead to

    bone remodeling, fusion of joints, and the formation of new bone (ankylosis). The

    inflammation can also extend to other joints, eyes (uveitis), and organs.

    Signs and Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can vary but often

    include:
     Chronic back pain: Usually worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

     Stiffness: Particularly in the morning or after rest.

     Reduced spinal mobility: Gradual limitation of spinal flexibility.

     Pain in the buttocks: May radiate down the back of the thighs.

     Fatigue: Common due to the chronic nature of the disease.

     Eye inflammation: Uveitis can cause eye pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.

     Breathing difficulties: Severe cases may affect the chest wall and lung function.

    Medicine Used: Medications used to manage ankylosing spondylitis include:

     Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce pain and

    inflammation.

     Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Such as sulfasalazine or

    methotrexate, to slow disease progression.

     Biologic Agents: Including tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors like adalimumab

    or etanercept.

     Corticosteroids: Used for short-term relief during flare-ups.

    Nursing Care: Nursing care for patients with ankylosing spondylitis involves:

     Providing education about the disease, its management, and the importance of regular

    exercise.

     Assisting with pain management strategies, including medication administration.

     Monitoring and managing potential complications, such as uveitis.

     Encouraging and guiding patients in maintaining mobility and good posture.

     Collaborating with other healthcare professionals for a multidisciplinary approach to

    care.
    Complications:

     Spinal Fusion: Over time, the vertebrae may fuse, reducing spinal flexibility.

     Fractures: The risk of vertebral fractures is increased in advanced AS.

     Eye Complications: Uveitis and other eye issues can lead to vision problems.

     Cardiovascular Issues: Inflammation can affect the heart and aorta.

     Breathing Difficulties: Reduced chest expansion can impact lung function.

     Psychological Impact: Chronic pain and disability can lead to emotional distress.

    Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medication, physical

    therapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of

    life for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis

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