AS or ankylosing spondylitis is a kind of arthritis that results in joint damage, mainly in the spinal regions. Aside from persistent pain, it can likewise cause issues with mobility. Fortunately, you can take certain steps to control your AS symptoms.
But it’s important to remember that what you do and don’t do could significantly impact the course of your condition. For example, the following habits could cause a flare-up and worsen your symptoms.
Not Exercising Regularly Can Worsen Stiffness
Lack of regular exercise will and can make stiffness as well as reduced flexibility and mobility that come with ankylosing spondylitis. You will need a balanced exercise program that involves stretching, functional, aerobic, and strength exercises that are focused on movements.
This will help you maintain your balance to help you perform your daily tasks easier.
Not Getting Ample Restorative Sleep
As you’re well aware by now, sleep provides a restorative effect on your body, which means that sleep-deprived individuals usually experience more flare-ups and increased pain. At the very least, you should be getting seven hours of sleep every single night.
Make sure that your room is conducive to restful sleep and that your mattress and pillows help you sleep better at night. If you are having trouble sleeping soundly at night, you should consult your general physician or doctor in Des Moines, IA.
Sleep issues and body aches and pains that hinder sleep might indicate that your condition isn’t as properly managed as it should be.
You are Still Smoking Cancer Sticks AKA Cigarettes
According to the Spondylitis Association of America, individuals who are genetically predisposed to AS usually need an environmental factor to trigger their symptoms, and smoking cigarettes is at the top of the list. It also leads to reduced response to AS medications.
You are Always Stressed Out
Anyone living with an autoimmune disease like AS, have an increased risk of experiencing flare-ups when they can’t control their stress. Put simply, and you need to get your stress levels under control.
You are Still Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol is known to reduce the number of good gut bacteria, and plenty of autoimmune illnesses are usually gut-related. Also, lots of alcoholic drinks such as beers, malts, lagers, and ales are made from grains that contain gluten, and many individuals who have AS, whether they’re aware or not, have a gluten sensitivity.
You are Consuming Way Too Much Sugar
Sugar could wreak havoc on your insulin levels, which are directly related to hormonal activity that impacts flare-ups in individuals with AS. A diet with lots of processed foods could likewise contribute to the body’s inflammation levels.
With this in mind, your diet should be rich in veggies, fruits, and healthy fats to help control your inflammation levels.
Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms and flare-ups could be mild, moderate, or very severe, and depending on how severe your condition is, daily activities could be very challenging. While medications can help control your condition, avoid the habits mentioned above that can disrupt your treatment plan.