About Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondylarthritis, is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected areas, which can limit mobility and reduce quality of life. The condition is more common in men than women and usually affects individuals between the ages of 17 and 45.

Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can vary from person to person and are heavily dependent on the severity of the condition. Some of the more common symptoms include:

• Back pain, especially in the lower back

• Stiffness, which is often most severe on waking and improves over the course of the day

• Pain and/or swelling of one or more joints

• Reduced range of motion in the spine and other joints

• Fatigue

• Eye inflammation

If left untreated, ankylosing spondylitis can cause the bones in the spine to fuse together, resulting in a loss of mobility and a hunched posture.

 The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. A specific gene called HLA-B27 is associated with an increased risk of developing the condition, but not everyone with this gene will develop ankylosing spondylitis. In addition, certain infections may trigger the immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation and damage. 

 There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation

• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow the progression of the disease

• Biologic medications to target specific molecules involved in the immune response

• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility

• Surgery in severe cases to replace damaged joints