Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of spinal arthritis, which causes bones along the spinal column to fuse together. This becomes painful over time and can change your posture as the spine becomes rigid and unable to flex the way that a healthy adult spine can. The bone disorder isn't age or gender specific, but it is most commonly found in teenage and young adult males, and is currently thought to affect up to 0.5% of the adult population.
Currently, the main cause of this type of arthritis is thought to be genetic, due to most sufferers carrying a gene called HLA-B27. However, not all carriers of this gene will develop the disorder, but it makes the risk significantly higher.
Understanding the 7 warning signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis can lead you to an early diagnosis and treatment. While there is no cure for the disorder, treatments have been developed to ease the pain and help you become more mobile once again.
1.) Pain
Your body's first signal that something is wrong is usually pain. Ankylosing spondylitis becomes more painful as it progresses. Neck pain, joint pain, back pain, and hip pain are common.
2.) Stiffness
Inflammation and bone fusion that occur in this type of arthritis will make you feel stiff. This stiffness usually begins in the lower back and works its way up the spine. Sometimes it starts in your legs and can extend right up to the neck.
3.) Lack of Mobility
As you experience pain and stiffness you will become less mobile. Activities that you used to enjoy will become chores if ankylosing spondylitis progresses.
4.) Bone Fusion
The most serious and confirming sign of ankylosing spondylitis is bone fusion, particularly in the spine. You may not realize that your bones are fusing at first, but an x-ray will show that something's not right inside. Hips, neck, ribs, and breastbones can fuse to other bones as well, making it difficult to stand up straight.
5.) Fatigue
The pain and inflammation caused by ankylosing spondylitis can be mentally and physically draining. Many individuals who suffer from the disorder experience bouts of fatigue, even when they have achieved a full night’s sleep.
6.) Discomfort in the Joints
Joint pain is normal as you age, but if you're a young man in the prime of your life and you are experiencing knee, elbow, wrist, and knuckle pain, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Joint discomfort is one of the 7 warning signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis which makes it easy to pinpoint, especially in teens.
7.) Anti-Inflammatories Provide the Only Relief
When you feel pain, it's instinctive to turn to over the counter pain medication to relieve it. Many people suffering from ankylosing spondylitis find that acetaminophen alone doesn't offer relief, but anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen will provide temporary reprieve from pain and stiffness.
If you or someone you know is currently experiencing the above 7 warning signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, speak to your doctor about possible causes and treatment options. Catching the arthritis early can slow down its progression and make you more comfortable.