ABOUT THE DISEASE
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a form of arthritis that mainly affects the lower back (spine and sacroiliac joints). Other joints and other parts of the body are sometimes affected. The disease may be mild to severe. The bones of the spine may fuse (bamboo spine) over time causing a rigid spine.
SYMPTOMS
- • Low back pain - intermittent initially, gets worse with time
- • Pain and stiffness more at night and morning, reduces with physical activity
- • Swelling / redness in eye-Uveitis
- • Slight fever and weight loss
- • Pain in other joints / hips
- • Fatigue
CAUSES
The cause is unknown, however has been found to be present in 90% individuals with a specific gene, HLA B27. Affects males more than females.
DIAGNOSIS
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- X-rays/MRI, especially those of the sacroiliac joints and spine
- CBC, ESR
- HLA B27
TREATMENT METHODS
Treatment comprises of physiotherapy / exercises, anti inflammatory medicines / steroids to reduce pain and inflammation.
In severe cases, a surgery might be required , for eg. hip replacement.
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Osteoarthritis
Spondyloarthropathy
Spondylosis
Spondylolisthesis
Back pain
Spinal stenosis