Ankylosing SpondylitisAnkylosing spondylitis is one of the more severe forms of arthritis.
It is a chronic inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac joints. Ankylosing spondylitis leads to pain and stiffness of the spine. Over time it can result in a complete cementing of the vertebrae resulting in loss of spinal mobility. In addition to the spinal column, ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in other joints and organs such as the eyes, heart, lungs, and kidneys.
This arthritis of the spine can affect people of all age groups. It is more common in men than women, and is most likely to affect people in their twenties and thirties.
This disease is thought to develop from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. One gene in particular, has been identified as a major cause of ankylosing spondylitis. This is the HLA-B27 gene.
However, while the presence of this gene increases the chances of contracting this disease, there are also several environmental factors conducive for the emergence of this condition. The exact cause of this inflammation and the various environmental factors is still being researched. It is suspected that the initial inflammation may be caused due to the body’s reaction to an infection.
Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis
The main symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammation of the spine. This results in pain and stiffness in lower back, buttocks, and neck.
The symptoms worsen over time. Fatigue is another symptom that is associated wit this condition. In advanced cases, where the spinal column fuses, there is a loss of mobility and the spine become very vulnerable to fractures. When the mobility of the rib cage is inhibited, patients experience difficulty in breathing.
The symptoms of arthritis may extend to other joints such as the hips, knees, and ankles. The disease may even affect organs such as the eyes, heart, lungs and kidneys.
Ankylosing spondylitis is diagnosed based on the patient’s symptoms, physical examination, x-rays, and blood tests. Diagnosis is a tricky procedure, especially in the case of women, because the symptoms are usually very mild. Blood tests to identify the presence of the HLA-B27 gene are a very important part of the diagnostic process.
Treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Treatment consists of a combination of medication and physical therapy.
Medication is given to reduce the inflammation and pain and to retard the spreading of this condition. Regular physical therapy is prescribed to improve posture, spine mobility and lung capacity.
People suffering from this condition are urged to regularly follow the regimen of exercise that is prescribed by their physician. Swimming is one of the best exercises for ankylosing spondylitis as it not only helps to keep the body supple and strengthens the muscles, but also increases the lung capacity. Patients are also urged to maintain a good posture and carry out regular breathing exercises. Sleeping on a firm mattress and avoiding the use of a pillow is also recommended. Smoking greatly impairs the functioning of the lungs and is especially harmful for people suffering from this disease.
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