Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Overview  

Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as Marie-Strumpell disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that leads to the fusion of a few vertebrae in the spine. The spine will become less flexible as a result of the fusing. This, in turn, can cause a hunched posture. It can be difficult to take deep breaths as the ribs are hurt.  

Men experience ankylosing spondylitis more frequently than women. Early adulthood is often when signs and symptoms first appear. Other body parts can also experience inflammation, with the eyes being the most prominent organ.  

Ankylosing spondylitis has no known cure. However, treatments can alleviate symptoms and possibly halt the disease's progression.  

Chronic inflammatory arthritis, often known as ankylosing spondylitis, is a painful form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis's early signs often appear between the ages of 15 and 25.  

Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms

Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms usually develop during early adulthood and are different in each individual. The most frequent initial indication is lower backache and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after rest. Such pain usually stems from sacroiliitis, which is inflammation of the sacroiliac joints where the pelvis joins the spine.

As the condition advances, other symptoms may be evident:

• Buttock and hip pain
• Stiffness in the neck
• Tiredness
• Decreased flexibility of the spine
• Shoulder pain, rib pain, or heel pain
• Eye inflammation leading to vision impairment
• Digestive issues and weight loss in certain individuals

Eventually, ankylosing spondylitis can result in the fusing of vertebrae, causing a stooped position and shortness of breath if the ribs are involved.

Symptoms  may flare up intermittently and intensify without treatment. Early diagnosis and regular exercise are essential for controlling pain and slowing the progression of the disease. If you have recurrent back pain that feels better with activity but worse with rest, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Causes 

Ankylosing spondylitis has no specific cause. Notably, people with a gene called HLA-B27 are at a significantly increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis. However, just some people with the gene develop the condition.  

Ankylosing spondylitis is mostly caused by a combination of various factors like genetic and environmental factors, most of which haven't been identified. However, various researchers have found variations in specific genes that influence the danger of developing this disorder.  

The HLA-B gene provides instructions for creating a protein that holds an important role in the immune system. The HLA-B gene is a component of genes called the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex. The HLA complex helps the system differentiate the body's natural proteins from proteins made by foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria.

The HLA-B gene has many various normal variations, allowing each person's system to react to a large range of foreign proteins. A traditional variant of the HLA-B gene called HLA-B27 significantly upscales the risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis.

Although some people with Marie-Strumpell disease have the HLA-B27 variant, most of the people with this version of the gene never develop the disorder. It's not fully known how HLA-B27 increases the chances of developing the disease.  

Variations in several genes, including ERAP1, IL1A, and IL23R, have been related to ankylosing spondylitis. However, many of those genes play a crucial role in the immune system, changes in genes that haven't been identified. They can also affect the chances of developing ankylosing spondylitis. Researchers are working to spot these genes and clarify their role in ankylosing spondylitis.  

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Risk Factors & Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis 

Men are more likely to develop Marie-Strumpell disease than women. Usually, it occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. Most of the people who suffer from ankylosing spondylitis have the HLA-B27 gene. But many of them who have this gene have minimal chances of developing ankylosing spondylitis.  

Complications  

In severe Marie-Strumpell disease, new bone forms as a part of the body's natural process of healing. The new bone, over time, bridges the gap between vertebrae and fuses with sections of vertebrae. Such parts of the spine become stiff and inflexible. Fusion also can stiffen the rib cage, restricting lung capacity and performance.  

Other complications might include the following

1. Eye Inflammation (Uveitis)  

Eye infection is a common complication of ankylosing spondylitis. Uveitis can cause quick-onset eye pain or sensitivity to light. In some cases, it can cause blurred vision. Consulting a doctor is advised if a person develops these symptoms.  

2. Compression Fractures  

Some people's bones weaken during the first stage of ankylosing spondylitis. The weak vertebrae can crumble, increasing the stooped posture. Vertebral fractures can add on pressure and possibly injure the medulla spinalis and the nerves that are present in the spine.  

3. Heart Problems   

Marie-Strumpell disease can cause problems with the aorta, the most important artery in the body. The inflamed aorta can enlarge, which impairs its function. The inflammation related to ankylosing spondylitis increases the risk of various cardiovascular diseases in general.  

Diagnosis  

Diagnosing this health condition is done by a doctor or a health care professional through physical examination, imaging test, X-rays or other lab tests.  

1. Physical Examination  

During a physical examination, a healthcare provider might ask the patient to bend to test the range of motion in the spine. A healthcare provider might attempt to produce pain by pressing on specific areas of the pelvis or moving your legs into a particular position. A patient is asked to take a deep breath to know if they have difficulty expanding their chest.  

2. Imaging Tests  

X-rays allow doctors to test for changes in joints and bones caused by Marie-Strumpell disease. These changes might not be evident early in the condition.  

An MRI uses radio waves or a strong magnetic field to provide detailed images of bones and soft tissues. MRI scans can reveal evidence of Marie-Strumpell's disease earlier in the disease progression.   

3. Lab Tests  

There are no explicit lab tests for ankylosing spondylitis. Blood tests can help a doctor to check for markers of inflammation. However, several other health problems can cause inflammation.  

Blood is often tested for the HLA-B27 gene.

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Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment  

The primary objective of treatment is to alleviate pain or stiffness and prevent complications and spinal deformity. Ankylosing spondylitis treatment can be successful before the disease causes damage.  

Medications  

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the medications doctors usually use to treat ankylosing spondylitis. These medications can relieve inflammation, pain or stiffness in the body. They can cause gastrointestinal bleeding as a side effect.  

Therapy  

Physical therapy is an essential treatment and can provide several benefits, from pain relief to improved strength and adaptability. A physiotherapist can design specific exercises for your needs. To assist in preserving good posture, a person will learn the following:   

• Range-of-motion exercise  
• Stretching exercises  
• Strengthening exercises targeting abdominal and back muscles  
• Proper sleeping or walking positions  

Surgery  

Most people with ankylosing spondylitis opt for surgery. Surgery is recommended if a person has severe pain or if a hip joint is damaged and needs replacement. 

Apart from the treatments, there are a few lifestyles changes a person has to follow to curb the severity of the symptoms.  

Lifestyle Choices  

Lifestyle choices also can help manage ankylosing spondylitis and its symptoms.  

Remain Active  

Proper exercise can help ease pain, help the body become flexible and improve posture.  

Don't Smoke  

If you smoke, quit. Smoking is dangerous to health. It develops additional problems for people with Marie-Strumpell disease, including further hampering breathing.  

Practice Good Posture  

Practicing standing straight ahead of a mirror can help a person avoid some of the problems of ankylosing spondylitis.  

Coping and Support  

The course of the condition can change over time, and a person would possibly have painful episodes and periods of less pain throughout their life. But most people can lead productive lives despite being diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis.  

Anyone might join an online support group to share experiences and support.  

Ankylosing Spondylitis Self-Care

Ankylosing spondylitis self-care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Regular exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga helps maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Practicing good posture prevents spinal deformities and eases discomfort. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports joint health.

Prioritising sleep and managing stress through mindfulness or relaxation techniques can reduce flare-ups. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol also benefit long-term outcomes. Self-care complements medical treatment and empowers individuals to stay active and independent while living with ankylosing spondylitis.

To sum up  

Ankylosing spondylitis, aka Marie-Strumpell, is a type of chronic inflammation that affects the spine. Symptoms set in early when a person is around 15 years old. Ankylosing spondylitis is mostly caused by a combination of various factors like genetic and environmental factors, most of which haven't been identified.  

Men are more likely to develop Marie-Strumpell disease than women. Diagnosing this health condition is done by a doctor or a health care professional through physical examination, imaging test, X-rays or other lab tests.  

Treatment of this health condition is done to manage the symptoms. The primary objective of treatment is to alleviate pain or stiffness and prevent complications and spinal deformity. Marie-Strumpell disease treatment is successful when done before the disease causes damage.