World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day
World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day is celebrated on the first Saturday in May. However, there is a temporary change (the second Saturday in May) when the first Saturday coincides with May 1, as this is a public holiday in many countries, which can affect the objectives of the event.
But what is this disease? It is defined as an inflammatory arthritis located mainly in the joints of the back and pelvis. Acute stiffness tends to improve with physical activity.
World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day aims to raise awareness and connect those affected with the support network in different parts of the world. Below, we will learn more about the disease, its causes, the treatments and the support we can give to patients.
Ankylosing spondylitis and axial spondyloarthritis
Causes and symptoms
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- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Skin rash
Treatments available for ankylosing spondylitis
Treatments are divided into medications, physical therapies and surgery. The objectives are to prevent irreversible damage or to delay the progress of existing problems.
Thus, the substances used are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If they do not work, tumor necrosis factor blockers and interleukin-17 inhibitors are used.
In addition, physiotherapy sessions are used to improve flexibility, strength and range of motion. This helps reduce pain. Under these conditions, the exercises are selected after a prior evaluation of the patient.
Ultimately, surgery is used to relieve pain and correct critical joint damage. However, it is not commonly used.
World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day
The main impetus for World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day comes from the International Federation of Axial Spondyloarthritis (ASIF), which sets three basic goals each year. The focus is on raising awareness, providing adequate information and strengthening human connections.
TOGETHER – axSpA and emotional well-being
How can you participate in World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day?
Data on axial spondyloarthritis
In conclusion, the final recommendations relate to paying attention to the risk factors associated with the HLA-B27 gene, family history and the presence of inflammatory bowel disease. Also analyze the degree of exposure to environmental pollutants and all kinds of toxins.
In short, World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day allows us to continue to move towards integration, visibility, awareness, effective treatments and cause detection.
