Spondylitis Association of America Forums General Discussion Women Only Message Board Medicine Confusion

I hope someone who is more experienced with AS can give me a little bit of insight. Im 35 and was diagnosed with AS about 8 months ago. I have had discussions with my doctor about going on medicines to alevate some of the pain, (which is in my back,shoulder joints and all the joints of my fingers), but I have been so far reluctant to take any medications besides naproxin (which I will only take, when it gets to the point whereI am a sobbing mess). It may be in vain but I keep telling myself that with light exercise, diet and vitamins I can manage through,I am so frightend at the thought of additional health problems, organ failure etc from the meds that I almost dont mind suffering. But heres my question. I've started getting nodules in my fingers, my hands now begining to look as bad as they feel. Do you know, if the medications actually hold off the progress of AS, are any of the medications preventative when it come to deformation of the body, or are they primarly for pain control. I really appreciate any help and advise you could give.

There are 3 lines of defense as highlighted in the website. Most of the preventive lines are in the DMARDs (disease modifying) and TNF, but you can get the most accurate input by reading the different areas of the site.

All these different group of med work differently on each individual. The key is finding the right answer for you. And, the key for that is finding a good Rhumy.

Some meds, in some people do hold off the disease.
Talking to your rheumy about what is best for you is the best way to go.
I like to look at it this way:
Side effects from meds generally go away when the meds are discontinued.
Permanent joint damage or fusions will never go away.
Please see and talk with your doc and good luck to you,
Char

I get two magazines that help a lot on learning. Arthritis Today and Arthritis Self-management.

Joyce