Ankylosing Spondylitis

Overview

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, where the spine meets the pelvis. Over time, it can cause some of the vertebrae in the spine to fuse, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced flexibility, often resulting in a hunched-forward posture. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a type of arthritis that tends to begin in early adulthood, mostly affecting men more than women, and can also impact other joints, including the hips, shoulders, and in severe cases, the ribs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis can vary, but the most common include:
– Chronic pain and stiffness: Especially in the lower back and hips, which is worse in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.
– Reduced flexibility of the spine: Difficulty bending, twisting, or performing movements that require spinal mobility.
– Fatigue: Constant inflammation can cause general tiredness.
– Inflammation in other joints: Ankylosing Spondylitis can affect the shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles.
– Limited chest expansion: Due to involvement of the rib joints, it can lead to difficulty taking deep breaths.
– Heel pain: In some cases, inflammation affects the tendons, causing pain around the heels.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if:
– You experience chronic lower back pain and stiffness that worsens in the morning or after periods of rest.
– You have unexplained joint pain, especially in areas such as the hips, shoulders, or neck.
– There is a limited range of motion in your spine or difficulty with everyday activities.
– Your pain persists for more than three months and worsens with inactivity rather than movement.
– You notice changes in posture such as a stooped back or difficulty standing upright.

Causes

The exact cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is not known, but it is believed to have a strong genetic component. Most people with AS carry the HLA-B27 gene, which increases the likelihood of developing the condition. However, not everyone with the gene will develop AS.

Other potential factors include:
– Autoimmune response: The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the spine and joints, leading to inflammation.
– Environmental factors: Though unclear, infections or other external triggers may play a role in triggering the condition in genetically predisposed individuals.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing Ankylosing Spondylitis:
1. Gender: Men are more likely to develop AS than women.
2. Age: AS typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood, usually before the age of 40.
3. Family history: If a close relative has Ankylosing Spondylitis, the risk of developing the condition is higher.
4. Presence of the HLA-B27 gene: People with this gene have a much higher risk of developing AS, though not all individuals with the gene will experience the disease.
5. Chronic inflammation: Conditions such as irritable bowel disease (IBD) may be associated with an increased risk of AS.

Prevention

While Ankylosing Spondylitis cannot be entirely prevented due to its genetic component, there are steps you can take to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications:
– Stay active: Regular exercise, especially activities that focus on flexibility and posture, can help keep the spine mobile.
– Practice good posture: Maintaining a proper sitting and standing posture helps prevent stiffness and misalignment.
– Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen respiratory symptoms and increase the severity of AS.
– Seek early treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment, including medication and physiotherapy, can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications.
– Follow a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage symptoms.