Early Warning Signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a debilitating inflammatory illness that can cause your spine to become increasingly rigid, leading to a curved back posture that significantly diminishes your flexibility.

When a rib is damaged, taking a deep breath can be excruciatingly difficult, compounding the problem by reducing the amount of oxygen that can be sent to the bloodstream.

Having a thorough knowledge of the early warning signs of Ankylosing Spondylitis can be critical in ensuring that you receive prompt treatment and minimize any discomfort.

Though Ankylosing Spondylitis is often overlooked in early adulthood, its effects are unmistakable. From spine-crippling inflammation to red, irritated eyes after a long journey, this condition can be life-altering. While there is no known cure for Ankylosing Spondylitis, a variety of therapies can help minimize its symptoms and lessen its progression.

As we get older, our bones become more fragile and we become more likely to develop Ankylosing Spondylitis, a potentially crippling condition caused by a genetic anomaly. If you have ongoing low back pain that worsens in the morning or when you're resting, these could be warning signs of the condition. To ensure you stay healthy in 2023, read on to learn more about the risks and treatments for Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis Include Pain and Stiffness in the Lower Back and Hips

The early morning might bring stiffness, fatigue, and neck pain - a warning sign that something is amiss. Symptoms of this condition can range from mild to severe, appearing and disappearing without warning. Unfortunately, seniors are especially vulnerable, as they often suffer more intense pain and a greater risk of fractures and respiratory issues.

The regions most often impacted are:

Having the HLA-B27 gene can be a risk factor for developing Ankylosing Spondylitis, although it doesn't necessarily mean that an individual will experience the condition.

Seniors living with Ankylosing Spondylitis are at risk of developing serious health complications, so it is vitally important to track the progress of the disease.

The remarkable regenerative powers of the human body can lead to the astounding formation of new bone in cases of severe Ankylosing Spondylitis, gradually fusing the vertebrae and resulting in a spine that becomes increasingly rigid. Sadly, this same process can also cause the rib cage to harden, thereby limiting lung capacity and function.

In addition to the issues we've already discussed, we should consider any other potential issues that might arise.

MRI, X-Ray Imaging, and Lab Tests are all Facilitated to Diagnose Ankylosing Spondylitis

During your physical examination, your doctor may request that you move your spine in various directions to test your range of motion. They may apply a light pressure to certain areas of your pelvis and request that you take certain postures to replicate any pain you may be feeling. Additionally, they may ask you to take a deep breath to check for any difficulty in expanding your chest.

At first glance, Ankylosing Spondylitis may not seem to present any outward signs. However, X-rays can detect subtle changes to joints and bones, and MRI scans can provide a more detailed picture - albeit at a greater cost.

By performing lab tests, we can gain invaluable insights about the effectiveness of our products and materials. This can help us pinpoint areas of improvement, allowing us to perfect our products and materials for the best possible performance.

Achieving an accurate diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis can be a difficult journey. While blood tests may point to signs of inflammation, they are not always a sure sign of this particular condition. HLA-B27 gene testing, which requires a simple blood sample, may not be a reliable indication either, since many people with the gene never develop the condition, while some who don't possess the gene still have it.

Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Treat Ankylosing Spondylitis, Relieving Pain and Inflammation

When treating Ankylosing Spondylitis, physicians often turn to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen to reduce symptom severity like swelling, discomfort, and stiffness. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential for gastrointestinal bleeding in elderly patients when taking these medications, as this should be a key factor in determining the most suitable treatment plan.

Unlock a world of possibilities for your health and wellbeing with physical therapy! With personalized exercises, your physical therapist can help you reduce pain, increase strength and flexibility, and stay mindful of your posture - all while helping you reach your goals.

Increase your strength and flexibility while improving your overall body condition by engaging in regular stretching exercises and range-of-motion activities. Additionally, maintain proper posture when walking and sleeping to ensure that your body remains in the best shape possible.

For those struggling with Ankylosing Spondylitis, surgery is generally not required - unless severe pain or a hip joint injury is present. In such cases, surgery may be the best option to alleviate the discomfort.