As COVD-19 continues its global spread, people with auto-immune conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis need to be more cautious considering they are living with immunity related conditions.
According to a global estimate, nearly 700 million people suffer from an auto-immune condition, in stages ranging from mild and moderate to severe.
While most people continue to be unaware, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are some of the most common auto-immune conditions which is gaining prevalence in India. Most patients are prescribed immune suppressants, which could increase their chances of contracting an infection. Elderly patients suffering from autoimmune diseases are at high risk of COVID-19.However, doctors strongly advice not to discontinue or change medication, as it might worsen their existing condition.
Several leading medical experts have highlighted the need for staying in regular touch with their doctor, to ensure that this period of restricted movement, doesn’t hinder their quality of life. Today, patients could tele consult, via a phone or video call.
Some of these auto-immune disease like psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis require regular visits to the doctor to take medications through injections. Such patients can’t take the medication themselves or delay the treatment for a long time due to the lockdown. They shouldn’t be scared to visit the doctor, as most medical set-ups are taking proper precautions. Patients should wear a mask, gloves, face shield and carry a hand sanitizer with them.
Dr V. Sarath Chandra Mouli, Clinical Director, Rheumatologist, Dept of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, KIMS Hospital said, “As per our clinical observation, there are more people reaching out to us with AS and PsA symptoms for consultation. The restricted movements and being stuck at home, has made many people take better notice of consistent back pain and joint aches and consult rheumatologists for diagnosis. A video consultation might be more convenient for patients due to the mobility challenges, during these times. Before a tele/video consultation we advise patients to keep their questions ready, so that all essential observations on the progress and/or deterioration of the condition, are addressed. Nowdays, more patients are being treated with IL-17A based biologics as they are safer. However, this is to be decided by their rheumatologist on a case to case basis regarding continuation or upon starting treatment with biologics. Patients should not let the pandemic affect their existing condition and continue focusing on achieving a better quality of life.”
Discontinuation of treatment can deteriorate the existing condition and may also result in other comorbidities associatedwith auto-immune diseasessuch as cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease and uveitis to name a few.
It’s important to note that halting treatment due to the ongoing pandemic is not a solution. The priority should be to keep the existing disease under control, which is only possible by staying in touch with your doctor and continuing the medications as prescribed by them.
