Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Face Higher Risk of Long COVID?

Q: Do Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Face Higher Risk of Long COVID?

Hello, thank you for your question. <br>Here are my responses： <br>1) Are patients with ankylosing spondylitis more likely to experience Long COVID-19 symptoms after contracting COVID-19? --> Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support this. <br>However, post-infection,

Do patients with stiffness have a higher risk of developing long COVID-19 sequelae if they contract COVID-19?

Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and currently undergoing stable treatment with Vectra and Celebrex (I asked you some other questions a few days ago).
I would like to ask you again: 1) Are ankylosing spondylitis patients more likely to experience Long COVID-19 symptoms after contracting COVID-19? 2) I had H1N1 in the second grade of elementary school (I developed ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17), and I recovered well without any sequelae.
Given my previous experience with seasonal influenza, does this mean that if I contract COVID-19 now, I would be less likely to develop severe symptoms or Long COVID-19 sequelae? Thank you, Doctor.

Zhengzhong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/15

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
Here are my responses:
1) Are patients with ankylosing spondylitis more likely to experience Long COVID-19 symptoms after contracting COVID-19? --> Currently, there is insufficient evidence to support this.
However, post-infection, individuals may experience side effects such as weakness, malnutrition, and multi-organ dysfunction.
Therefore, individuals who maintain a relatively healthy and stable condition, including those with ankylosing spondylitis, are likely to have a better prognosis during the recovery period after unfortunate infection and subsequent recovery.
2) I had H1N1 in the second grade (I developed ankylosing spondylitis at 17).
I recovered well without any sequelae.
If I had seasonal influenza in the past, will I be less likely to develop severe symptoms or Long COVID-19 after contracting COVID-19 now? --> The two are not related.

Best regards from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/04/15

More Info

As a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), your concerns regarding the potential risks associated with COVID-19, particularly the possibility of developing Long COVID, are valid and important. Let's address your questions based on current medical understanding.

1. Do patients with ankylosing spondylitis face a higher risk of Long COVID?
Currently, there is no definitive evidence suggesting that individuals with ankylosing spondylitis are at a higher risk for Long COVID compared to the general population. Long COVID, which refers to a range of symptoms persisting for weeks or months after the initial infection, can affect anyone who has had COVID-19, regardless of their underlying health conditions. However, it is important to note that patients with chronic inflammatory conditions like AS may experience unique challenges during recovery due to factors such as immune system dysregulation, medication effects, and overall health status.

Patients with AS often take immunosuppressive medications, which can impact their immune response. While these medications are crucial for managing inflammation and pain, they may also influence how the body responds to infections, including COVID-19. Therefore, maintaining a stable health condition and managing your AS effectively is essential in minimizing the risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19.

2. Does a history of seasonal flu or H1N1 infection provide any protection against severe COVID-19 or Long COVID?
The relationship between previous infections, such as seasonal flu or H1N1, and the severity of COVID-19 is complex. While having a history of respiratory infections may contribute to some level of immune memory, it does not guarantee protection against severe COVID-19 or Long COVID. Each virus interacts with the immune system differently, and COVID-19 has unique characteristics that distinguish it from other respiratory viruses.

Moreover, the immune response to COVID-19 is influenced by various factors, including age, overall health, and the presence of comorbidities. Therefore, even if you had a mild experience with H1N1 in the past, it does not necessarily mean that you will have a milder case of COVID-19 or a lower risk of Long COVID.

Additional Considerations:
- Monitoring Symptoms: It is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely if you contract COVID-19. If you experience any concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or significant fatigue, seek medical attention promptly.

- Vaccination: If you have not already done so, consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination has been shown to reduce the severity of illness and the likelihood of hospitalization, even in individuals with underlying health conditions.

- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can support your immune system and overall well-being. This is particularly important for individuals with chronic conditions like AS.

- Mental Health: The anxiety surrounding COVID-19 and its potential impact on your health is understandable. Consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional, as managing mental health is an integral part of overall health, especially during challenging times.

In conclusion, while there is no clear evidence that ankylosing spondylitis patients are at a higher risk for Long COVID, it is essential to remain vigilant about your health and take preventive measures. Stay informed, maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, and prioritize your overall well-being.

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