How Can I Better Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that often causes significant distress to patients. To better manage and alleviate this condition, patients can adopt a comprehensive management approach through dietary adjustments, lifestyle management, medication therapy, and physiotherapy. Each method can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life to varying degrees.

1. Dietary Adjustments: Dietarily, it is recommended to consume calcium-rich foods such as milk and shrimp shells to help maintain bone health. Additionally, fresh fruits and vegetables are an integral part of the diet, providing the body with various nutrients necessary for recovery from the disease. Imagine the body as a machine that requires various parts to function normally, and these foods serve as the raw materials for those parts.

2. Lifestyle Management: Reasonable rest and avoiding overexertion are crucial in daily life. Holding the same posture for a long time may exacerbate the condition, so it is advisable to move the body regularly. Keeping warm is also key, as exposure to cold may trigger or worsen pain symptoms. Just like a precise instrument, it requires careful maintenance to function well.

3. Medication Therapy: For patients with more severe symptoms, medication therapy can provide effective relief. Under a doctor's guidance, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets can be used to alleviate pain. If needed, glucocorticoids like methylprednisolone and dexamethasone can also be prescribed by a doctor. These medications act like "repairmen" for the body, helping to repair and alleviate symptoms.

4. Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy methods such as infrared radiation and microwave therapy can be conducted with the help of a doctor. These therapies promote local blood circulation and have a positive effect on disease progression. Imagine these therapies as providing a warm massage to the body, helping soothe and relax tense areas. Regular follow-up visits are crucial for understanding disease progression and recovery. If significant discomfort arises during management, seeking medical attention promptly is necessary to avoid delaying treatment. Through comprehensive management methods, patients can better control their condition and improve their quality of life. I hope every patient can find a management approach suitable for them and lead a more comfortable life.