Ankylosing spondylitis causes inflammation in different regions of your body, most commonly the spine and pelvis. The condition slowly progresses over time, causing bones to fuse together, resulting in a hunch in the back. The hips, shoulders, breastbone and ribs can also be affected with bone fusion, pain, and stiffness.
While the swelling and inflammation due to the disorder is usually specific to the bones, some cases of spondylitis will see swelling in the eyes. This can be increasingly become uncomfortable, and cause vision problems over time. So, what causes spondylitis and how is it treated? Read on below for a better understanding of this condition.
Causes and Effects:
The primary cause of spondylitis is thought to be related to genetics, as it is found mostly in individuals who carry a specific gene called, HLA-B27. Not every person with the gene will develop the disorder, but if it runs in your family, your chances of experiencing the above symptoms are higher.
Other factors that may increase the risk of ankylosing spondylitis, include gender and age. The condition isn't gender specific, but the majority of those affected are males in their teens or young adulthood.
The effect of the disease, aside from the common symptoms experienced as the disorder progresses, is the development of new bones. As the body tries to heal itself new bone fragments can form and begin fusing to other bones within reach. This genetic anomaly is uncomfortable and diminishes range of motion.
Treating Spondylitis:
Once you know what causes spondylitis and how is it treated, you must visit your physician for a proper diagnosis. X-rays and MRIs help doctors determine the severity of the condition, and give them a better idea of what medications to use. Anti-inflammatory drugs help to reduce pain and swelling, but do not prevent further fusion. Tumor necrosis factor blocking drugs, such as etanercept and infliximab decrease the chances of infection.
Surgery is rarely resorted to in cases of ankylosing spondylitis, but it may be used if symptoms such as pain and bone growth become unbearable. The hope is that most cases will be detected and progression of the disease can be slowed down before intense amounts of fusion begin, and hunching becomes permanent.
Stretching, exercise, massage, and physical therapy all help to promote better posture, and prevent the hunched external appearance that comes with the progression of the disease. Doctors often refer patients to a physical therapist to stimulate greater range of motion and circulation.
Care at Home:
An important part of treating ankylosing spondylitis happens at home by yourself. Taking time to stretch out limbs, sit with proper posture, and utilize ergonomic furniture all help to contain the disease and delay its progression. Individuals with spondylitis can live healthy normal lives by following doctor's instructions, maintaining nutrition and vitamins, and exercising regularly.
For more information on what causes spondylitis and how is it treated, speak to your physician. If you notice any of the above symptoms in yourself or somebody you love, have them checked as soon as possible. The earlier the condition is diagnosed and treatment begins, the less bone fusion will occur.