What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?


Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that gradually causes some parts of the vertebrae to fuse. If left untreated, the disease can spread to the ribs and other parts of the spine, making them rigid. Consequently, the inflexibility of the spine causes a stooped posture, and the patient may have difficulty breathing.

Notably, various statistics suggest that men are more vulnerable to developing the disease than women. The reason for this revolves around the physical nature of the jobs most men indulge in.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis
The signs of Ankylosing spondylitis normally begin to manifest themselves in early adulthood. The most common symptoms include back and neck pain, stiffness in the lower back or hips, and fatigue. 

Moreover, most symptoms appear early in the morning, and after long periods of inactivity. These symptoms may either worsen or improve over time, depending on the severity of the disease. 

In some cases, the symptoms may stop at irregular intervals, subsequently causing pain and discomfort intermittently. 

Besides affecting the lower back and hips, Ankylosing spondylitis may also affect the following areas:

  • The cartilage between the ribs and breastbone
  • The joint between the sacroiliac and spine
  • Where tendons and ligaments attach to bones
  • Shoulder joints
  • Hip joints

Causes
The causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis remain unknown. However, research indicates that genetic factors could play a part. In essence, people who carry the HLA-B27 gene are more likely to develop the disease than those who do not have this gene.

Other risk factors include:

Sex
As mentioned earlier, men are more likely to develop this disease that women

Age
Ankylosing Spondylitis is more common in adolescents and young adults

Heredity
Various studies suggest that Ankylosing Spondylitis could be hereditary. Essentially, people with the HLA-B27 gene are more vulnerable. However, only a small fraction of people with this gene develop the disease.

Complications
Ankylosing Spondylitis normally affects the spine, but in some cases, the disease may spread to the ribs and even the eyes. In severe cases, Ankylosing spondylitis may trigger the body to form a new bone, hence causing sections of the spine to fuse. It may also stiffen the rib cage, making it difficult to take deep breaths. 

Other complications associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis include:

Inflammation of the eyes
Eye inflammation or uveitis is among the most common complications associated with this disease. Symptoms include sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and rapid-onset eye pain.

Cardiovascular problems
The inflammation may spread to the aorta, consequently impairing normal functions of the heart.

Compression fractures
As the disease progresses, the vertebrae become more weak, leading to a stooped posture. This puts excess pressure on the spine, subsequently increasing the likelihood of fracturing your bones.


Treatment options
Ankylosing spondylitis does not have a cure. However, one can treat and manage the disease through medications, physiotherapy, and surgery.

When to see a doctor
You should see your doctor if you regularly experience pain in your lower back and hips, especially in the mornings or in the middle of your sleep. You should also visit an eye specialist if you experience rapid-onset eye pain or blurred vision.

Location: 261-12 E Williston Ave, Queens, NY 11001, USA

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