About this topic
Ankylosing spondylitis is swelling and soreness of the joints in the spine and pelvis. It is an autoimmune disease. This means the body attacks its own healthy tissues. As the body tries to heal itself, new bone is formed. Over time, the bones in the spine can fuse or join together. This problem often causes pain and stiffness in the lower back area. Sometimes, this problem can affect other areas like the eye or heart valves. It may also cause problems with stiffness in the ribs. This can make it hard to breathe when doing exercise. ‚
What are the causes?
The exact cause is not known. Some people who have ankylosing spondylitis have a problem found with their genes. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have this problem if you are a man between the age of 20 and 40. It also is more likely to happen to you if someone else in the family has this problem. Having Inflammatory bowel syndrome makes you more likely to have problems with ankylosing spondylitis. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Pain
- Most often in the lower back and where the back meets the pelvis
- Sometimes, in the hips, upper back, shoulders, rib cage, and heel
- Worse in the morning
- Better with activity
- Stiffness
- Trouble breathing if the rib cage is affected
- Chest pain if the heart or lungs are affected
- Eye problems
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will feel around your spine and where the spine meets the pelvis. Your doctor will also feel around any other areas that may be causing you pain. The doctor will have you bend, straighten, and twist your back to check its motion. Your doctor may also have you take deep breaths to check how your rib cage moves. ‚
Your doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- X-ray
- CT or MRI scan
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
- Physical therapy for treatments to ease pain and to teach exercises
- Exercises for stretching, core strengthening, and breathing
- Surgery may be needed for very bad pain or to replace joints such as the hip
Are there other health problems to treat?
- Eye problems ¢ ˆ ’ Your eyes may be sore. They may be sensitive to light. You may notice more tears or have blurred eyesight.
- Heart and breathing problems ¢ ˆ ’ You may have problems with the valves in your heart controlling the blood flow. You may also have problems breathing.
- Compression fractures ¢ ˆ ’ Your spine is weaker and the bones may crack a little. You may notice slouched posture. Some people also have nerve damage.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is nothing to be done to prevent this problem. Early treatment may give a better outcome. ‚
Helpful tips
- Keep a healthy weight. Being overweight puts extra stress on your joints.
- If you smoke, quit. People who have ankylosing spondylitis and smoke are at much higher risk for severe damage.
- Swimming and water aerobics are good ways to exercise. Swimming is not hard on your joints.
- Always use good posture. Do not slouch. Remind yourself to keep your shoulders back and head up when sitting or standing.
Where can I learn more?
Arthritis Foundation ‚
http://www.arthritis.org/conditions-treatments/disease-center/ankylosing-spondylitis-as/ ‚
National Institute or Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases ‚
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Ankylosing_Spondylitis/default.asp ‚
National Organization for Rare Diseases ‚
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/143/viewAbstract ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚