Spondyloarthritis is a collective name for joint diseases, the axial feature of which is a connective tissue inflammatory process in various structural elements of the joint (ligaments, capsule, etc.). Sometimes the broader term seronegative spondyloarthropathy is used, which emphasizes the absence of Rf (immunoglobulin rheumatoid factor) in the blood serum, whereas the diagnosis of spondyloarthritis emphasizes exactly the inflammation.
Symptoms and signs of spondyloarthritis
The clinical picture of spondyloarthritis is very diverse, and in the early stages is often nonspecific and poorly expressed. In addition, the symptomatology in specific cases depends crucially on the predominant localization of the process. However, the most common and widespread symptoms can (with some caution) be considered the following:
- Signs of inflammation in certain joints or groups of joints (interphalangeal, spinal, etc.), including pain, limitation of mobility, localized fever, swelling, redness of the supra-articular skin, etc.;
- morning stiffness of joints;
- inflammatory eye involvement;
- the presence of provably diagnosed psoriasis and/or enterocolitis;
- presence of urogenital infectious-inflammatory process (cervicitis, urethritis, etc.);
- tendency to sausage-like thickening of fingers and toes;
- transient pain with projection to the buttocks;
- asymmetrical signs of joint inflammation;
- postural abnormalities;
visual impairment.
Further dynamics (up to severe disability) is determined by the nature of the causes and other individual characteristics of the case.
How spondyloarthritis is diagnosed
Spondyloarthritis can be difficult to diagnose, especially if you don’t have a recognizable combination of symptoms. Some people only have joint pain and stiffness, which can have many other possible causes.
Your doctor will start by asking you about your symptoms and checking for any related symptoms that you may not have mentioned. He will also ask you about your medical history and family medical history.
He will physically examine your back or other joints and check your range of motion. He will take x-rays to look for signs of arthritis or enthesitis, but the signs won’t always show up on the scans.
Your doctor may order blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or autoimmune disease. He or she may also test you for the presence of the HLA-B27 gene. These tests can help distinguish spondyloarthritis from other conditions.
How serious is spondyloarthritis
When inflammatory arthritis is severe and lasts a long time, it can cause some serious complications. But these are usually the type of complications that affect your quality of life, not your length of life.
For example, you may lose mobility in your joints and become more prone to bone fractures. But not everyone develops serious symptoms, and treatment can affect how the disease progresses.
How quickly spondyloarthritis progresses
How spondyloarthritis progresses differs from person to person. In some people, it progresses slowly and is easily controlled with treatment. Others, however, can develop ankylosing spondylitis with spondylosis in just a few years.
Inflammation affects how quickly spondyloarthritis progresses. Consistent treatment can help control inflammation and prevent complications from developing.
How can I prevent the condition from worsening?
To prevent the condition from worsening and slow the progression of the disease, it is important to follow a few key recommendations:
- Activity: regular physical activity helps prevent loss of mobility and keeps joints healthy.
- Weight control: being overweight can increase stress on joints, especially the spine and hips.
- Proper nutrition: following an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins can reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
- Smoking cessation: smoking increases the risk of developing chronic diseases and worsens joint health.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays an important role in the treatment of spondyloarthritis. It helps to improve joint mobility, reduce pain and prevent complications such as ankylosis (joint fusion).
- Exercise therapy: regular exercise helps to maintain muscle flexibility and strength. Exercise is especially important to improve posture and keep the spine mobile.
- Massage: massage can help relax muscles and relieve tension in the joints.
- Heat and cold treatments: these can be used to relieve pain and inflammation and to improve circulation to the affected areas.
Psychological support
Living with a chronic condition such as spondyloarthritis can become psychologically demanding. Patients may experience depression, anxiety and stress related to mobility limitations and pain. In such cases, psychological support is important.
Counseling with psychologists and group therapy to improve emotional well-being may be helpful.
Conclusion
Spondyloarthritis is a serious chronic condition that primarily affects the spine and joints but can also involve other organs. Early diagnosis, consistent treatment, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments are essential to slow disease progression and maintain quality of life. With a comprehensive approach that includes medication, physical therapy, proper nutrition, and psychological support, many patients can manage symptoms effectively and continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.
