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Flu-like Symptoms with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Just a few months ago, I received the long overdue diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis. For years, I felt like I was going crazy not understanding what was happening with my body. Now with the proper diagnosis, I am having a lot of success controlling AS with nutrition, supplements, lifestyle changes and a strict workout routine. Many of my symptoms have gone away or have become more manageable, but I still a couple times of month wake up feeling 'hungover' or 'flu-like'. This feeling comes with nausea, fatigue, feeling hot, migraines, diarrhea, etc.. When this happens, I am out for days. Doing more research, I have become aware that others who have AS may experience this as well.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to deal with this when it happens? Or a routine that helps you get through this feeling that you'd be willing to share. I am forever grateful for any recommendations or connections I can make through this discussion.

  1. Hi ,


    I haven't experienced full blown flu symptoms but I was told that my Enbrel injections could cause me to have a bit of a blocked nose and have a bit more phlegm which is something I sometimes experience. I also sometimes get a bit of a hangover sensation the day after I take Methotrexate. Potentially it could be a side effect of some of the medicine or supplements you are taking? Perhaps it would be best to ask your doctor if anything you are taking is linked to this?


    Wishing you well,
    James (Community Member)


    1. I suggest you look at two websites. First is


      Frequency and characteristics of disease flares in ankylosing spondylitis:
      https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article/49/5/929/1785928


      and


      Ankylosing Spondylitis Flares: Exactly What to Do When You Have One
      https://creakyjoints.org/about-arthritis/axial-spondyloarthritis/axspa-symptoms/ankylosing-spondylitis-flare-ups/


      One is a bit old from a 2010 publication, Rheumatology. It is a great explanation of flares. The second is from CreakyJoints and discusses some suggestions for flare treatment.


      rick

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