Ankylosing spondyloarthritis (AS) is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It is a chronic and inflammatory disease that can cause stiffness and pain in the back, neck, hips, and shoulders.

This condition can lead to permanent spinal damage and disability, but early diagnosis and treatment can prevent major complications.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis

The symptoms of AS may vary from person to person and may worsen or improve over time. The following are the most common signs of AS:.

Back Pain

The most common symptom of AS is persistent and severe back pain that can be dull or sharp. The pain may start in the lower back and gradually move up the spine.

This pain is often worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity and may improve with exercise or activity.

Stiffness

People with AS often experience stiffness in the morning or after a prolonged period of inactivity. This stiffness may last for several hours and may affect the neck, back, and hips.

The stiffness may also occur after a long journey or during periods of stress.

Fatigue

Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of AS. This may be due to the body’s constant inflammation and the stress of dealing with chronic pain and discomfort.

Fatigue can have a significant impact on daily life, affecting a person’s ability to work, socialize, and perform everyday tasks.

Reduced Mobility

As AS progresses, it can lead to a loss of mobility and flexibility. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as bending, reaching, and walking.

Reduced mobility can also affect a person’s ability to exercise or participate in physical activities, which can further impact their overall health and quality of life.

Eye Inflammation

In some cases, inflammation can occur in the eyes of people with AS. This is known as anterior uveitis and can cause redness, pain, and sensitivity to light. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage to the eyes.

Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis

Diagnosing AS can be difficult, as there is no specific test that can confirm the condition. A doctor will typically diagnose AS based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and medical history.

The following are some common tests used to diagnose AS:.

X-rays

X-rays can help detect changes in the spine or joints that are characteristic of AS. X-rays may show gradual changes or fusion of the bones in the lower back.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

An MRI can help detect inflammation in the joints and bones that may not be visible on an X-ray.

Blood Tests

Although there is no specific blood test to confirm AS, your doctor may perform tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. Blood tests may help detect inflammation levels and antibodies that can be present in some types of arthritis.

To diagnose AS, a doctor may also consider other factors such as age of onset, family history of arthritis, and response to treatment.

Treatment of Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis

There is currently no cure for AS, but treatment can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. The following are some common treatments for AS:.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. These medications are available over the counter or by prescription.

Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

DMARDs such as sulfasalazine and methotrexate can help slow down the progression of the disease by reducing inflammation in the joints.

These medications require careful monitoring by a doctor and may cause side effects such as liver damage and low blood cell count.

Biologic Drugs

Biologic drugs such as adalimumab and etanercept can help reduce inflammation in the joints by targeting specific proteins in the immune system. These medications may cause side effects such as allergic reactions and increased risk of infections.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help improve mobility, strength, and flexibility in people with AS. A physical therapist can recommend exercises and stretches that can help relieve pain and improve overall function.

Surgery

In severe cases of AS, surgery may be required to correct spinal deformities or fusion. Surgical options may include joint replacement or spinal fusion.

Conclusion

Ankylosing spondyloarthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, but early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of serious complications.

If you are experiencing persistent back pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, it is important to speak with your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.