6Prevalence of Psoriatic Spondylitis
Psoriatic spondylitis is one of the most prevalent autoimmune conditions. It affects millions of people all over the world. It is estimated that around 10 to 30 percent of individuals with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. Around 20 percent of individuals with psoriatic arthritis may develop psoriatic spondylitis later. However, keep in mind that different sources would provide different estimates for the prevalence of psoriatic spondylitis. [7]
Medications for Psoriatic Spondylitis
The key to treat psoriatic spondylitis is to prevent joint and bone damage as well as manage symptoms to help achieve remission. Common medications used for treating this disease include:
– Small molecule drugs: These include tofacitinib and apremilast. They work by prevent the immune system from attacking the skin and joints.
– Biologics: Taking these medications may help reduce the frequency of flare-ups, alleviate the symptoms, and slow the progress of psoriatic spondylitis. They can be infused or injected to people with a new diagnosis. It is important to note that biologics are not suitable for everyone as there may be several side effects and risk of infection.
– Disease-modifying antirheumatics drugs or DMARDs: They can be effective in inhibiting the immune response and reduce inflammation in the body. You make take these medications as an injection or a pill.
– Steroids: They are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can help relieve severe symptoms temporarily. You may take them as a pill or as an injection. Avoid using steroids frequently as it would cause several side effects, such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, or weight gain.
– Anti-inflammatory drugs: NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may help alleviate mild pain, stiffness, and inflammation in people with psoriatic spondylitis. Common options include aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. Frequent use would lead to possible side effects, such as kidney impairment or stomach bleeding. [8]
