Non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis :are looking for a guide on non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis ? Then here you will get all required information about its definition, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, survival rate, life expectancy, etc.
What is Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is an inflammatory disease that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, which are the joints that connect the lower spine to the pelvis. Unlike its close relative, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), nr-axSpA does not show any visible damage on X-rays, even though there is active inflammation present. This can make diagnosis challenging, but there are other ways to identify the condition.
Symptoms of non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is an inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, located where the lower spine meets the pelvis. Unlike its close relative, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), nr-axSpA doesn’t show any visible damage on X-rays despite underlying inflammation. This can make diagnosis challenging, but several symptoms can point towards nr-axSpA.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of nr-axSpA:
1. Lower Back Pain:
- This is the most prominent symptom, typically felt in the lower back and buttocks.
- The pain often worsens at night and upon waking, improving with movement and activity.
- It can be dull and achy or sharp and stabbing, sometimes alternating sides.
2. Stiffness:
- Morning stiffness, lasting at least 30 minutes after waking up, is another characteristic symptom.
- Stiffness can also occur after periods of inactivity, making it difficult to get moving.
3. Fatigue:
- Many people with nr-axSpA experience persistent fatigue, which can impact daily activities.
- This fatigue is often linked to chronic inflammation and sleep disturbances caused by pain.
4. Enthesitis:
- Inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, causing pain and tenderness.
- It commonly affects the heels, Achilles tendons, and the soles of the feet, but can also occur in other areas like the shoulders, hips, and ribs.
5. Other Joint Pain:
- While the spine and sacroiliac joints are primarily affected, pain can also occur in other joints like the hips, knees, shoulders, and wrists.
6. Additional Symptoms:
- Some people with nr-axSpA may experience:
- Eye inflammation (iritis or uveitis)
- Skin rashes like psoriasis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Difficulty taking deep breaths due to spinal stiffness
Causes of non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
HLA-B27 gene: The strongest genetic risk factor for nr-axSpA is the HLA-B27 gene. About 85% of people with nr-axSpA have this gene, compared to only about 5% of the general population. However, having the HLA-B27 gene does not guarantee that you will develop nr-axSpA, and many people with the gene never have any symptoms.
Other genes: Researchers are also investigating the role of other genes that may be involved in nr-axSpA. These genes may play a role in the immune system, inflammation, or other processes that are thought to be involved in the development of the disease.
Infection: Some studies have suggested that certain infections, such as bacterial infections of the gut, may trigger nr-axSpA in people who are genetically susceptible.
Stress: Stress is not thought to cause nr-axSpA, but it may worsen symptoms in some people.
Age: nr-axSpA typically first appears in young adults, between the ages of 20 and 40.
Sex: Men are slightly more likely than women to develop nr-axSpA.
Treatment of non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
- Medications:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These are over-the-counter medications that help reduce pain and inflammation. However, long-term use can have side effects like stomach ulcers.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications suppress the immune system and slow disease progression. Sulfasalazine is sometimes used.
- Biologic drugs: These newer medications target specific inflammatory pathways in the body and are often used when other medications haven’t been effective. TNF inhibitors like Cimzia are currently approved for nr-axSpA.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can create an exercise program to help you improve flexibility, strength, and posture. Regular exercise is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing joint stiffness.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Quit smoking: Smoking worsens inflammation and disease activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put additional stress on joints.
- Stress management: Stress can exacerbate symptoms. Techniques like yoga or meditation may be helpful.
- Healthy diet: While no specific diet for nr-axSpA exists, focusing on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally recommended.
Conclusion
You should make healthy choices non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. Following these guidelines can help ensure that your experience is smooth and everything heals quickly.
We hope, this information will help you in knowing non radiographic axial spondyloarthritis treatment, symptoms.
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