Ankylosing Spondylitis

Key features of ankylosing spondylitis include:

• Inflammation of the sacroiliac joints: The condition often begins with inflammation of the joints connecting the base of the spine (sacroiliac joints) to the pelvis.
• Spinal involvement: The inflammation gradually affects the spine, typically starting in the lower back (lumbar region) and progressing upwards. This can lead to a condition known as "bamboo spine," where the vertebrae fuse together, causing a rigid, bamboo-like appearance on X-rays.
• Enthesitis: Ankylosing spondylitis can also involve inflammation at the sites where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, known as enthesitis. This can result in pain and swelling in areas such as the heels, elbows, and other joints.
• Extra-articular manifestations: Ankylosing spondylitis can affect other parts of the body, leading to manifestations such as eye inflammation (uveitis), psoriasis, or inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).

The exact cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of Ankylosing Spondylitis are more likely to develop the disease. Ankylosing Spondylitis is also more common in men than in women.

The most common symptom of Ankylosing Spondylitis is chronic back pain and stiffness, which is often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Other symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis may include:

• Reduced flexibility
• Fatigue
• Pain and swelling in other joints
• Eye inflammation
• Psoriasis
• Inflammatory bowel disease

There is no single test to diagnose Ankylosing Spondylitis. Doctors typically diagnose Ankylosing Spondylitis based on a patient's medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRI scans.

There is no cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis, but there are a number of treatments available to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Treatment may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): To control inflammation and disease activity.
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): To control inflammation and disease activity.
• Biologic therapies: Targeted medications that can be effective for some people with severe AS.
• Physical therapy and exercise: To maintain flexibility and improve posture.
• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can be beneficial.

Early diagnosis and proactive management are crucial to prevent complications and maintain the best possible quality of life for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.

Early diagnosis and treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis can help to:

• Reduce pain and stiffness
• Improve flexibility and mobility
• Slow disease progression
• Prevent complications
• Maintain the best possible quality of life

All medical treatments carry some risks. The risks associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis treatments will vary depending on the specific treatment being used. Some potential risks include:

• Side effects from medications
• Allergic reactions
• Infection
• Bleeding

There is no set recovery time for Ankylosing Spondylitis. Some people with Ankylosing Spondylitis may experience periods of remission, while others may have more persistent symptoms. The severity of Ankylosing Spondylitis can also vary over time.