Ankylosing spondylitis

AS is a disease of the spine in which there is gradual loss of mobility in the joints between the vertebrae. It occurs mainly in males between the ages of 20 and 40.

Research shows that about 9 in 10 people (90%) with ankylosing spondylitis have the genetic cell marker - Human Leukocyte Antigen B27 (HLA-B27) although having this gene does not necessarily mean you will get ankylosing spondylitis

Symptoms

• The most common symptom is pain which often starts in the lower back.
• The pain starts mildly but gradually increases over time and resting does not ease it.
• The pain is often worse first thing in the morning.
• Some people may also suffer from a feeling of malaise, tiredness or even depression.
• There is a slight risk that people with ankylosing spondylitis may go on to develop colitis, Crohns disease, psoriasis, osteoporosis, lung fibrosis, or cardiovascular disease.

Diagnosis
MRI scans can be used to confirm the disease in its earlier stages.

Treatments
Treatments can include painkillers such as paracetamol if symptoms are mild between flare ups, NSAIDs drugs to reduce inflammation and ease pain and drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressant’s) if symptoms are severe.

Approximately 5% of people with Ankylosing Spondylitis may require a hip replacement if the hip becomes badly affected.

Tens machines, heat, and a massage may also help and good posture and exercise is essential for people with Ankylosing Spondylitis.