Early Signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis You Shouldn’t Ignore
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. Early detection is crucial to prevent irreversible spinal damage, maintain mobility, and reduce pain. Consulting a Chronic Pain Rheumatologist or an Experienced Rheumatologist at a Best Rheumatology Hospital or Multidisciplinary Autoimmune Clinic ensures timely diagnosis and treatment.
Common Early Symptoms
- Chronic back pain: Persistent stiffness, especially in the lower back and hips, often worsening at night or early morning.
- Reduced spinal flexibility: Difficulty bending or twisting the spine due to inflammation.
- Fatigue: Generalized tiredness, sometimes observed in patients under the care of a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Specialist.
- Joint swelling and tenderness: Particularly in the hips, shoulders, and knees, requiring Joint Swelling Treatment.
- Eye inflammation: Redness and pain, which may need consultation with a Dry Eyes Dry Mouth Specialist in cases of Sjögren’s overlap.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis is unknown, contributing factors include:
- Genetic predisposition: Presence of the HLA-B27 gene increases risk.
- Immune system dysfunction: The body mistakenly attacks spinal joints and ligaments.
- Association with other autoimmune disorders such as Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) Treatment history or Autoinflammatory Diseases Treatment.
- Environmental triggers such as infections or prolonged stress.
Diagnostic Procedures
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and investigations:
- Physical examination: Assessing spinal mobility and joint tenderness.
- Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to detect inflammation and joint changes.
- Blood tests: Checking for inflammatory markers and HLA-B27 genetic marker.
- Biopsy for Autoimmune Disease: Occasionally required to rule out overlapping autoimmune conditions.
- Immunodeficiency Diagnosis: To ensure no underlying immune dysfunction complicates the condition.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to reduce pain, inflammation, and prevent spinal deformities:
- Medications: NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Immunosuppressants Treatment: To control autoimmune activity.
- Biologics for Autoimmune Diseases: Advanced therapy for severe or resistant cases.
- Physical therapy: Exercises to maintain spinal flexibility and strength.
- Regular follow-up: With a Chronic Pain Rheumatologist or Experienced Rheumatologist to monitor disease progression.
FAQs
Q1. Can Ankylosing Spondylitis be cured?
Currently, Ankylosing Spondylitis has no cure, but early treatment with Biologics for Autoimmune Diseases and Immunosuppressants Treatment can effectively manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Q2. How do I know if back pain is AS or regular back pain?
Pain that improves with exercise, worsens at rest or during the night, and is associated with stiffness suggests Ankylosing Spondylitis. Consulting a Chronic Pain Rheumatologist is recommended.
Q3. Are lifestyle changes effective?
Yes, regular exercise, posture management, and stress reduction complement medical therapy and improve overall mobility.
Q4. Is AS linked with other autoimmune diseases?
Yes, patients may have overlapping conditions like Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), Lupus, or Autoinflammatory Diseases Treatment issues.
