Signs and Remedies for Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects one’s spine. The symptoms of the disease usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood and can affect one’s flexibility and mobility, leading to stiffness, pain, and a hunched posture. If the disease affects the ribs, one may have difficulty breathing. Although there is no known cure, various treatments and ways can help manage the symptoms and slow down its progress. What is ankylosing spondylitis? Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that typically begins in the area where the spine meets the pelvis. It can cause some of the bones in the spine to fuse. This fusing is a process where small bones of the spine interlock together and affect the flexibility of one's back, AS is one of six illnesses in the spondylitis family that have some of the same symptoms. 12 signs of ankylosing spondylitis Back pain Since AS primarily causes inflammation in one's joints of the vertebrae, it leads to dull pain in the back. The pain can also be felt in one's buttocks, thighs, and can turn sharp or unbearable if left untreated. The pain may initially alternate between one's left and right side, upper spine, neck, and even chest, eventually affecting one's overall movement. Soreness in one's heel or the foot arch and tenderness at the base of one's pelvis may cause pain and affect one's ability to sit or walk comfortably. Stiffness Individuals may experience stiffness in the lower back, especially after long periods of no activity, like after getting up in the morning. The stiffness may last for about half an hour and improve with physical movement. Doing light yoga or recommended exercises in the morning can also help alleviate the symptom. Changed posture Left untreated, AS may lead to a stooped back or curvature over a period of time. Chronic inflammation AS may lead to joint inflammation in one’s shoulders, knees, hips, ankles, and back. Inflammation in a patient's aorta, which is the largest artery in one’s body, may lead to blocked blood flow. Tightness in chest If AS inflammation fuses the joints where ribs meet the spine, it may lead to tightness and pain in the chest. The inflamed chest wall may also hamper one’s breathing and cause pain during coughing or sneezing. Stomach problems If inflammation spreads to an individual's gastrointestinal tract, it may lead to bloating, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal infections, which pose a major risk factor for AS. Some symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fatigue, and loss of appetite overlap between AS and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which is why about 10% of AS patients have both conditions. Loss of appetite Inflammation may lead to a false sense of a full stomach even after eating a small meal. One also runs the risk of developing a fever without any infection or trigger. Anemia The condition limits the body’s ability to use iron to make red blood cells. This leads to a higher risk of anemia, which impacts a person’s quality of life. Vision problems Approximately 1 in 3 patients suffering from AS face eye inflammation and vision problems due to the disease. AS can lead to acute eye inflammation between the cornea, at the front of the eye, and the lens. Inflamed eyes can cause redness and pain, which can intensify in harsh sunlight or bright light if left untreated. If one experiences sudden sensitivity to light, sore eyes, and blurred vision, they are advised to immediately consult a doctor to avoid any permanent damage. Fatigue Some people with AS commonly report mild to unexplained chronic fatigue as a symptom. Fatigue can be caused due to fever, loss of appetite and lowered food intake or a deficiency of red blood cells. The body may expend energy to fight inflammation and blood loss from inflammation in the intestine. To manage fatigue, try eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and living a healthy lifestyle. Psoriasis In rare cases, people with AS may also develop psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease that leads to red, scaly patches anywhere on one's skin, especially on one's scalp, elbows, and knees. The condition may cause itchiness, soreness, and stinging. Blood pressure According to the Spondylitis Association of America, about 2 to 10 percent of Ankylosing Spondylitis patients run the risk of developing high blood pressure or other other cardiovascular conditions. This is due to the inflammation around one’s heart. Diagnosis Ankylosing spondylitis can be diagnosed via blood tests and physical examination to check one’s flexibility, breathing capacity, stiffness in the joints, and pain in the back, pelvic bones, chest, and heels. The examination also includes asking about an individual's family history and any active symptoms of the disease. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray imaging can also help a doctor to track inflammation and suggest suitable treatment options. Natural remedies for ankylosing spondylitis Treatment revolves around easing pain, reducing inflammation, preventing permanent joint damage, and slowing down the progress of the disease. Some of the natural remedies to prevent AS are as follows: Stretching Stretching boosts one's flexibility and releases pain. Patients can try yogic postures for lower back or rotations or stretches for the spine after waking up or during any time of the day. Maintaining good posture A good, erect posture is a key to maintaining good spine health. One is advised to use a hard mattress while sleeping so there’s less pressure on the spine. Concerned persons can also avoid using thick pillows. Sleeping straight on one’s back and avoiding slouching while standing, walking, or sitting can be beneficial. Swimming Swimming is one the most efficient and natural full-body exercises that can relieve soreness and maintain optimal health. A hot bath is also highly recommended for AS patients. It’s best to take doctor’s advice on the best exercises for those suffering from AS. Acupuncture Acupuncture, performed by trained professionals, involves inserting needles into predetermined areas on the skin that trigger the body's natural pain-relieving hormones. According to some studies, acupuncture can aid with AS pain relief. Apart from this, one can also consider TENS therapy and massage therapy for improved movement and sleep. It’s best to consult a doctor before opting for any remedies to avoid complications.