A Brief Overview of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Symptoms

The sedentary human lifestyle has brought with it a baggage of newfound health issues resulting in weakening of the human body structure. Ensure to keep a constant track of changes in your body and maintain a regular body check-up schedule. Arthritis is a common health issue faced by youngsters today. What was earlier limited to people nearing their old age has now started showing up within the age group of 20 to 25. If you witness sudden pain and stiffness in your backbone, these are a few Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.

To precisely define it, ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that affects the bones and muscles of the spine thereby making it stiff, painful, and stooping. According to recent research, 0.1 percent to 0.4 percent of the total population is affected from ankylosing spondylitis. If classified gender wise, this medical issue is more common in males as compared to females. It is important to keep track of this form of arthritis as it escalates with every passing day.

There is no proper medical clarification as to how and why ankylosing spondylitis affects your body. It has also been noted that people carrying a gene called HLA-B27 are prominently affected by this medical issue. However, there is no accuracy in these findings. There have been instances wherein people with the similar gene have not been affected by this form of arthritis.

Following are a few ankylosing spondylitis symptoms:
Recurrent pain and stiffness
The first ankylosing spondylitis symptoms are constant pain and stiffness in your spine, lower back, and in pelvic bones. In the initial stages, there are random bouts of pain which eventually surge over a period. The constant rubbing of the muscles and bones result in extreme pain. If you witness prolonged pain in your back or the lower back muscles, it’s time to get yourself thoroughly checked to avoid further complications.

Bone expansion
In the second stage of ankylosing arthritis, symptoms like spinal bones start developing a bone extension which protrudes from the main bone and generates abnormal joining of bones. If this has affected you in the spine, lower back or the hips, you might face difficulty in doing daily chores. If the protrusion is around the ribcage or breastbone, you might suffer from breathing issues.

Ligament and tendon pain
Ligaments and tendons are the most important elements of the human structure. The proper functioning of these elements ensures to keep the human posture straight. Increased pressure on ligaments and tendons may also lead to arthritis. Any form of injury to the ligaments or tendons needs wholesome time to heal. Sudden inflammation of tendons causes pain and needs to medically cater to as soon possible.

It is a common notion that people suffering from joint pains or muscle pains are only affected by this. However, in addition to the above-mentioned ankylosing spondylitis symptoms, there are a few other symptoms which may as well lead to this medical condition.

Sudden eye redness and pain in the eyes is a primary symptom observed in this form of arthritis. Ignoring this for a general eyesore is not advisable. If your body sends out such indications, rush to your nearest medical center and get a checkup done.

In addition to this, prolonged ignorance to these initials signs will eventually aggravate into lung and heart diseases. A regular physical examination and a complete body check up are advised by the doctor. This kind of arthritis has no proper medication and can only be cured with the help of routine exercises and a healthy diet.

Make it a point to maintain a straight posture as it would keep the spine strong and avoid putting unwanted pressure on the spinal cord. Avoid constant stooping to prevent deformity and engage in daily activities. Ensure to maintain good body movements and concentrate on back exercises.

People suffering from ankylosing spondylitis symptoms need to undergo physiotherapy and occupational therapy to maintain muscle and bone functioning. Keep track of medications prescribed by the doctor and ensure to complete the course. In addition to this, avoid alcohol and tobacco as they directly attack the muscles and bones.

The treatment options in these cases vary from person to person depending upon the age and the level of arthritis. In extreme cases, however, people have to undergo replacement surgeries to avoid further complications. Keep track of your sleeping postures and avoid molding the body in an odd posture. Avoid landing with force while sitting or sleeping on the bed as it would serve as a jerk to the bones and muscles. The treatment modality will depend upon an individual’s case which is the prerogative of the doctor.

With the help of proper medication and exercise regime, ankylosing spondylitis symptoms can be cured at the earliest. Following these tips can help in getting relief from ankylosing spondylitis it in a better way.