Ankylosing Spondylitis Causes and Treatment

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a long-term disease for which the causes are currently unknown. It affects the joints in the backbone and between the spine and pelvis causing them to inflame painfully. In severe and prolonged cases the afflicted joints will fuse or join together. It most commonly occurs in males between 20 and 40.

Symptoms

• Inflammation and pain usually starts in the lower back.

• Pain will come and go at first. Usually getting better with activity and/or exercise

• Pain is worse at night and in the morning - anytime you are inactive for an extended period of time. The pain may wake you up at night.

• Fatigue

• Loss of mobility in the lower spine, and possible chest area if the joints between the ribs are affected

Less Common Symptoms

• Foot Pain

• Hip stiffness and/or pain

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Pain and swelling in shoulders, knees and ankles

• Eye inflammation

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the case different methods may be applied. Since the causes of the diseases are unknown effective treatment is difficult.

Usually most treatment will start with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. This will help reduce inflammation and consequently pain.

If pain and symptoms persist or become worse corticosteroid therapy or medication may be prescribed. TNF-inhibitors are also sometimes proscribed at this time to block inflammatory producing proteins.

In more extreme cases cytotoxic drugs (drugs that stop cell growth) may be prescribed. And surgery is also an option if joint damage is such that it prevents mobility.

Things to Try First

Before trying medication you can try a few different things. Exercises and frequent activity can help less the inflammation and pain. Also sleeping on you back at night rather than your side or stomach has often helped with pain. However, if you are at all concerned contact your health care provider and set up an appointment.

Sources: NCBI "Ankylosing Spondylitis" PubMed Health, National Library of Medicine