What is the effective treatment for ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis should certainly be treated with scientific treatments, and now treatments must be targeted. Drug treatment is also indispensable. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are very good at reducing inflammation and pain, and can reduce muscle spasms. Patients should also pay attention to proper exercise.

1. Treatment policy

Early diagnosis and early treatment can control inflammation, reduce or relieve symptoms, maintain normal posture and optimal functional position, and prevent deformities.

2. Drug treatment

(1) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and stiffness and muscle spasm relieving effects. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, kidney damage, prolonged bleeding time, etc. Pregnant and lactating women should pay special attention. (2) Sulfasalazine SSZ is an azo complex of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and sulfapyridine (SP). The main side effects are gastrointestinal symptoms, rash, changes in blood count and liver function, but they are rare. It is advisable to check blood count and liver and kidney function regularly during medication. (3) Methotrexate is reported to have efficacy similar to that of SSZ. Oral and intravenous administration are similar in efficacy. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, bone marrow suppression, stomatitis, hair loss, etc. Check liver function and blood count regularly during medication and avoid drinking alcohol. (4) Adrenal cortical hormones are generally not used to treat AS, but when NSAIDs are ineffective in treating acute iritis or peripheral arthritis, they can be injected locally or taken orally. (5) Tripterygium wilfordii glycosides have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and are easy to take. Side effects include gastrointestinal reactions, leukopenia, menstrual disorders and decreased sperm motility, which can be recovered after stopping the drug. (6) Biological agents such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) antagonists (such as etanercept and adalimumab) are currently the best choice for the treatment of AS and other spinal and joint diseases. Those who have the conditions should try to choose them.

3. Prognosis

Ankylosing spondylitis can only be prevented from the occurrence of spinal deformities to the greatest extent by combining drug treatment with appropriate functional exercises.