Arthritis is a well-known health condition. But here’s something few people realize: arthritis can appear in many different ways, and different types of arthritis can affect different parts of the body. And some kinds of arthritis are more severe than others, like ankylosing spondylitis.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a particularly painful type of arthritis. It’s quite rare – only 1.4 percent of Americans are living with this condition. But if you do have AS, you know that it can cause serious joint pain, problematic inflammation, and even joint damage. And, if left untreated, this condition can worsen over time.
The more you know about AS, the better you’ll be able to recognize its symptoms. And if you catch any symptoms or potential warning signs, the better equipped you’ll be to see a doctor and seek out treatment options.
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a Chronic Condition
One of the most important facts to know about ankylosing spondylitis is that it’s a chronic condition. Once you’re diagnosed with AS, you’ll be dealing with its effects and symptoms throughout your life.
Ankylosing spondylitis shares many qualities with general arthritis, such as causing inflammation and joint damage. But it also is different in a number of ways. AS commonly causes pain and stiffness in the lower back, and it can spread up to the neck. It can also affect other joints throughout the body. Over time, AS can cause the vertebrae of the spine to fuse together. And that can significantly affect your ability to move and remain flexible.
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis. Instead, treating this chronic condition requires regular symptom and pain management. If you work with your doctor to manage the effects of the condition, you may be able to lessen your symptoms and potentially slow the progression of AS.
The Cause of AS is Unclear
The medical world is still searching for the exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis. Researchers aren’t 100 percent sure what, exactly, causes or triggers the development of AS.
There is evidence that genetics may play a role in AS. Research has found that many people who have AS also have the HLA-B27 gene, which is related to the immune system. If this gene is present, it may cause the immune system to attack bacteria. And that might then trigger AS and its symptoms.
If you’re worried about being at risk for AS, you should talk with your doctor about getting tested for this gene. There are plenty of people who have the HLA-B27 gene and don’t develop AS, so you can learn more about your specific risk level.
Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms Often Appear Early
When ankylosing spondylitis symptoms begin, they tend to occur early – and soon after the condition begins. The first signs tend to be pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, particularly in the morning when you first wake up. You might also feel pain and stiffness after you’ve been sitting down for long periods of time.
Other early symptoms of AS include neck pain and fatigue. You might notice that these pains come on at certain times and then disappear. You might experience periods of painful symptoms and periods of no symptoms at all.
As AS progresses, the symptoms tend to become more consistent. You’ll likely experience frequent pain in:
- The base of the spine and lower back.
- Particular lower back vertebrae.
- Places where tendons and ligaments attach to bones.
- The cartilage between the breastbone and ribs.
- Hip joints.
- Shoulder joints.
If you begin experiencing pain or stiffness in any areas of the body that might correspond with AS, talk with your doctor. It’s important to get a diagnosis and determine the root cause of your pain. Then, you can begin working on a treatment plan that will effectively address your health issues.
Treating and Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis is a Lifelong Process
Remember, there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. That means that if you’re diagnosed with this condition, you’ll need to treat its symptoms and effects consistently.
Certain treatments can help combat the pain and stiffness that AS brings. These include:
- Getting regular exercise, which can help with flexibility, reduce pain, and improve posture.
- Medication, which can be used to lessen inflammation and pain.
Keep in mind that your symptoms may change as ankylosing spondylitis progresses. As the severity of the condition changes, you may need to adjust your treatment and management methods.
Additionally, new health changes and complications can appear as ankylosing spondylitis progresses. This can cause additional symptoms or significant health conditions, such as:
- Pain and inflammation in new areas of the body.
- Changes in your vision, like blurry vision or increased sensitivity.
- Heart problems, like an enlarged aorta or an altered aortic valve shape.
- Cancer, which can be more common with AS.
Ultimately, being knowledgeable about ankylosing spondylitis is critical. If you could be at risk for this condition, it’s important to stay informed about its symptoms, its effects on your overall health, and potential treatment options. And if you think you might be living with AS, make sure to seek out a doctor who can test for this condition and help you find answers.