Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis in which the immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. Men are more likely to develop this disease, which usually appears between the ages of 15 and 40.
Cause
The exact cause of the disease has not yet been established. However, it is believed to be partly related to genetic predispositions. Therefore, a person's risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis increases if a family member has been diagnosed with the disease. In fact, a great majority of people with ankylosing spondylitis carry a gene known as HLA-B27. The disease, however, does not necessarily develop in all people who have this gene, suggesting that other factors are involved.
Symptoms
The joints most commonly affected are located in the spine, mainly the low back area. The hips, shoulders and knees can also be affected. Here are the main symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis:
- Severe pain, preventing movement or sleep
- Stiffness, often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the joints (e.g., back of the heel, sole of the foot, hips, sternum)
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Vision problems
Complications
As the inflammation persists, the body tries to repair the damage by producing new bone tissue, causing some of the bones in the spine to grow closer and even fuse together. The skeleton can thus be fixed in a bad posture, resulting in reduced mobility. Furthermore, the disease can weaken the bones, which increases the risk of fractures.
Other organs may be involved. Ankylosing spondylitis can cause inflammation of the heart valve or of the eyes (uveitis). People can also have respiratory problems if the cartilage of the rib cage is affected.
Treatment
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. It is possible, however, to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of those affected. Early treatment could delay or even prevent complications.
Because it can reduce pain and fatigue, and improve mobility, regular physical activity is an important part of managing the disease. Overexertion, however, can lead to joint damage. It is therefore recommended that people with ankylosing spondylitis consult a physiotherapist and an occupational therapist.
There are several drug treatments that can help reduce pain and maintain mobility. Adopting certain lifestyle habits can also help improve one's overall condition, such as the following:
- Avoid carrying heavy loads
- Apply heat (for pain and stiffness relief)
- Apply cold (for inflammation relief)
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
Surgery may sometimes be considered if other approaches are not sufficient.