What is spondylitis?
spondylitis, which is also known as ankylosing spondylitis, is an arthritic condition that directly affects the spine. It causes chronic pain and general discomfort in the upper and lower backs. Patients also often experience the overall feeling of stiffness in the back and eventually lose some mobility. Ankylosing spondylitis always begins with the spine, but over time it can spread to different organ systems throughout the body, leading to a number of different symptoms.
Since ankylosing spondylitis progresses, the symptoms may gradually deteriorate. In the beginning, patients will experience pain and stiffness, especially at the bottom of their spine near the buttocks. Finally, the pain can begin to spread to the upper areas of the spine and other joints in the body, such as the hips. When the disease becomes advanced, patients may find that their spine is inflexible and may start to lose weight or suffer from chronic fatigue.
As other forms of arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disorder. This inflammationIt can cause the body's immune system to respond as if there is any injury and the new bone may grow in the spine. This bone can eventually lead to the overall immobilization of the spine. This condition is called the backbone fusion and it is not very common, but it is a real possibility if the disorder does not be treated.
Most scientists agree that ankylosing spondylitis is genetically inherited. There is one particular gene called the HLA-B27, which was directly associated with a disorder. Although there is definitely a correlation between gene and disease, many people have a gene and never develop a condition, so some scientists suspect that there are other factors.
There are several other things that increase the risk of a person other than a genetic connection. The currency has a better chance of getting a disease than women, especially if they are between the age of 20 and 30. Native Americans also have a slightly more chance of developing ankylosing spondylitis ine Comparison with other races.
Ankylosing spondylitis cannot be cured, but there are several treatments that can help reduce discomfort and reduce the chance of serious complications. Non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs can be useful in dealing with pain and reducing inflammation. As the symptoms progress, more serious medicines can be prescribed. Some doctors also recommend physical therapy that helps maintain basic mobility in the spine. In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery, but this is not very common.