Fasting and ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis, also called axial spondyloarthritis, can cause inflammatory back pain, joint stiffness and reduced spinal or hip movement. Changes in meals, fluids, sleep and medicine timing may alter how you feel during a fast. Fasting itself does not replace treatment, and a difficult flare should not be interpreted as a normal part of fasting. Morning joint stiffness, worsening pain or reduced range of motion can help your clinician judge whether your plan needs adjustment.

Discuss the plan before fasting, especially if you take anti-inflammatory medication or other regular prescriptions. Do not crush, delay or combine doses unless the prescriber confirms this is safe. During permitted hours, drink enough fluid for your medical situation and choose balanced meals that support energy. Keep gentle movement in your routine: short walks, mobility exercises, Exercise Therapy or Physiotherapy may reduce stiffness. Hydrotherapy can be an option when land exercise is uncomfortable. Record pain, stiffness, sleep, hydration and medicine timing so changes are easier to review.

Contact your clinician if fasting repeatedly worsens pain, stiffness, fatigue, dizziness, stomach symptoms or mobility. Seek urgent care for severe weakness, fainting, confusion, chest pain, severe breathlessness, new limb weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Stop the fast and follow your medical plan if you cannot maintain safe hydration or take essential medicine as directed.

Ask whether fasting is appropriate with your current disease activity, how to time each medicine, which fluids and foods suit you, what symptoms mean you should stop, and how to adapt exercise during the fasting period.