Pain killers also called as NSAID’s (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are anchor drugs in the treatment of pain of patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis.
NSAID’s are some of the oldest and most widely used medications for controlling pain and inflammation and are widely used as a first-line treatment for AS. While NSAIDs work quickly on pain, their effect as an anti-inflammatory takes longer.
There are various kinds of NSAIDS available like Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Aceclofenac, Etoricoxib, Naproxen, etc.
Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain Killers can cause unwanted side effects.
Possible side effects of Pain Killers are stomach ulcers, stomach upset, high blood pressure, fluid retention (causing swelling around the lower legs, feet, ankles, and hands), kidney problems, heart problems, and rashes.
Long-term use of Pain Killers has been associated with a slightly higher incidence of heart attacks and strokes. Although side effects can occur at any time, the risk of side effects increases with higher dosages and with a longer duration of treatment. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor, as well as any additional precautions to avoid side effects.
Pain killers can be used as bridge therapy for the treatment of patients with AS. Other drugs like DMARD’s and Biologicals are the mainstay of treatment and can be used for long-term treatment under a Rheumatologist’s guidance.
Dr. Ashish K Badika has 3 years of advanced training in Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology including 2 years Post Doctoral.
He has extensive exposure to Systemic Autoimmune Disorder (Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, Seronegative spondyloarthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Scleroderma, Gout, Myositis, Sjogren’s Syndrome, Vasculitic conditions, and Paediatric rheumatology disorders).