Home - health - Ankylosing Spondylitis – Causes, Symptoms, And Management

Ankylosing Spondylitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Ankylosing Spondylitis – Causes, Symptoms, and Management

From facilitating erect posture to ensuring body structure, the spine performs numerous functions and is an indispensable part of the human body. Thus, health issues concerning the spine and back, including ankylosing spondylitis, can be debilitating, requiring early diagnosis, timely treatment, and adequate care. This article provides a detailed insight into ankylosing spondylitis, its causes and symptoms, treatment options, and some lifestyle tips to help patients cope better with the condition.

What is ankylosing spondylitis?
Belonging to a group of diseases classified as spondyloarthropathies, ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a health condition wherein the vertebral bones fuse over time, causing severe pain and stiffness. Such pain is particularly prevalent in the lower back, buttocks, and hips. It hampers mobility considerably and is classified as a form of arthritis. Specifically, AS is the advanced stage of sacroiliitis, characterized by inflammation of the sacroiliac joints between the spinal base and the pelvis. Studies reveal that 13 in 1,000 people in the country are diagnosed with this disease.

Risk factors for ankylosing spondylitis
Although the exact cause of AS is unknown, some risk factors can contribute to the onset of this condition:
Genetic factors
Individuals with a gene known as HLA-B27, proteins classified as antigens, are at a higher risk of acquiring AS than others. However, not all individuals with this gene may develop a health condition. Further, individuals with close relatives, such as parents or siblings, diagnosed with AS are 10-20 times more susceptible to the disease than those with no such family history.

Racial predisposition
Studies suggest that AS is more prevalent among Caucasians, possibly due to the increased presence of the HLA-B27 gene in Caucasian individuals. It has been found that up to 95% of Caucasians have this gene, considerably increasing their risk of developing this disease.

Uveitis
Some studies demonstrate that uveitis, characterized by inflammation of the uvea or center of the eye, can increase one’s risk of developing AS. According to one study, 50% of individuals with AS had uveitis at least once. The inflammatory factors causing the two health conditions are the same; consequently, these diseases are commonly associated.

Inflammatory bowel disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and AS are highly interconnected, as one of these conditions can trigger the other. In one research study, 3-4% of patients with AS were already grappling with IBD during their AS diagnosis. Conversely, AS can also increase one’s risk factor for developing IBD.

Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis
Stiffness in the lower back and hips
A common symptom of AS is stiffness in the lower back and hip regions, particularly in the mornings or after spells of inactivity.

Fatigue
Individuals with AS often face chronic fatigue, which does not diminish with sleep and rest. The constant pain and rigidity caused by AS can significantly contribute to such fatigue.

Inflammation in other joints
Other joints, such as the knees, shoulders, and feet, are also typically affected by AS. Pain and stiffness in these joints are common AS symptoms and can worsen with time.

Curved spine
The spine often becomes curved due to the fusion of the vertebral bones. Thus the postures of patients with AS are often compromised.

Difficulty in breathing
AS can trigger the onset of lung inflammation or pulmonary fibrosis, accompanied by chest tightness. Such comorbidities can cause shortness of breath.

Flu-like symptoms
Patients with AS may develop flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills during the early stages of AS. Some individuals diagnosed with AS also report night sweats.

Sleep issues
Since pain increases with inactivity among individuals with AS, sleep issues are common AS symptoms. A study shows that up to 90% of persons with the condition were suffering from sleep issues.

Jaw inflammation
Patients with AS are likely to develop temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, involving swelling and inflammation of the jaw. Jaw inflammation can cause difficulties in eating, sleeping, and talking.

Treatment options
Physical therapy
One way to alleviate the symptoms of AS is through physical therapy, which entails a range of exercises to increase strength and flexibility. These exercises can also improve posture significantly. Some activities included under PT are strengthening exercises, deep breathing, posture training, and stretching.

Surgery
Although surgery is not a recommended treatment option for most, it may be prescribed to patients with extremely severe pain or serious hip-joint damage.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an age-old practice that can help with pain relief, particularly among individuals suffering from lower back pain, neck pain, etc. Thus, it may be an effective technique to relieve AS symptoms.

Ways to deal with ankylosing spondylitis
Have nutritious meals
A meal plan rich in calcium sources, such as milk, yogurt, tofu, lentils, almonds, and leafy vegetables, is ideal for patients with AS. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and magnesium are also important for treating AS symptoms. One must incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoid foods that trigger or worsen inflammation, such as deep-fried and processed foods.

Avoid long spells of inactivity
AS symptoms typically improve with movement; therefore, patients with AS must engage in low-intensity physical activities like walking, jogging, low-impact aerobics, and stretching. A physiotherapist can guide patients with the most effective exercises for AS.

Maintain good posture
An erect posture goes a long way in preventing the worsening of AS symptoms. Thus, from the early stages of the condition, it is advisable to practice maintaining a good posture and seeking help from a physiotherapist.

Regulate your sleep schedule
Having a good sleep cycle is crucial to fighting the symptoms of AS. Although sleep is often compromised among patients with AS, following tips like regular exercise, sleeping on a firm mattress, using a thin pillow, and controlling the bedroom temperature before sleeping can facilitate better sleep among those with AS.

Get professional massages periodically
Professional back massages can help calm the body and mind in multiple ways, improving mobility and facilitating pain relief. Regular back massages are recommended for symptom relief among patients with AS.

Previous Read

Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

Next Read

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.

Trending Articles

01

Essential Points and Services to Consider for Gutter Protection

Renovation and upgrades are not just limited to the aesthetic changes around the house. It also includes the necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure there are no unnoticed damages that could worsen with time. Rain gutters collect all the water and provide a proper outlet flow to prevent leaks during a heavy pour. And gutter protection systems ensure these drainage outlets operate efficiently. Here are essential points to consider before installing these systems. Gutter guards function as a primary filter Protective covers prevent leaves, mud, sticks, and even smaller rodents or pests from washing into the small opening designed for water collection. This helps lower the cost of maintenance significantly, as you do not have to frequently clean these outlets. Most guards have a crisscross mesh pattern that allows only liquids to flow into the drainage system. With protective covers installed, you spend no more than a couple of hundred dollars to have the entire system serviced twice a year. Long-term utility benefits When water flows freely within the drainage system, it reduces the risk of pooling or overflowing and ultimately leaking. Water pooling, if left unchecked, can also damage the structural integrity of the home. Moreover, dirty, backed-up rainwater becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other parasites, increasing the risk of infection.
02

How to Choose the Best Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses Online

Contact lens users can choose from a range of categories of lenses. Among the different types, a popular choice is monthly disposable contact lenses, requiring minimum cleaning and easy handling. You can wear a pair of monthly lenses for 30 days before replacing it. But with several options available online, it can be challenging to find a suitable pick. For your convenience, we’ve discussed a few things you can consider before buying disposable lenses online. Popular monthly disposable lenses available online Purchasing a pair of high-quality contact lenses is imperative to ensure good eye health. We have listed six popular lenses from different brands that you can pick from online. Note that each lens for your left and right eye is designed based on a prescription from an eye doctor. Alcon AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY®AQUA® Approved by the FDA, the AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY®AQUA® flexible lenses are designed to sit comfortably in the eyes for 30 consecutive days and nights as you can sleep in these lenses. A box of six lenses costs about $95.99. The product boasts a SMARTSHIELD® Technology – a protective layer of moisture that repels unwanted deposits that may irritate the eye. Moreover, it is one of the softest and most breathable lens options.
03

Tips to Get the Best Deal for a Junk Car

It might be difficult to sell your beloved trusty old commuter car due to its frequent repairs. However, car selling can help you get an extra slice of income, even if it is junk. Statistics suggest that selling your junk car to the auto recycling industry contributes at least $25 billion per year to the national GDP. So, read this article if you are looking to sell your car to a junkyard for some extra cash. Know your car’s true value You will be surprised to know the worth of a junk car as it stands stationed in your garage, gathering dust. There are multiple services and history-based value tools available online that can help you get an estimate of your old car. A thorough evaluation can help you get a good deal, especially if you are looking to sell your car to a junkyard for cash. If your car is inoperable, gathering rust and dust in your garage, consider selling it to auto salvage yards or junkyards. These yards might not offer a higher price, but you can certainly earn some profit by selling your junk car to them. Ask around or look online for the best auto salvage yards that offer you a good deal.
04

Top 7 Healthy Energy Bars

With energy bars gaining immense popularity, it comes as no surprise that their market is expected to grow by $1.09 billion this decade in the continent alone. These protein bars have become the go-to choice for a quick and healthy snack as people become increasingly conscious about their food choices. These nutritious mini-meals are highly preferred by young people and athletes alike. Let’s look at some of the leading healthy options for you. Boom If you are among those who love to start their day with a caffeine kick, Boom bars help you just the right amount of that jolt. A single energy bar contains about 150mg of caffeine, which is more than that in a single espresso shot or a regular cup of coffee. Not only that, but they also contain 11g of protein, making it a filling snack. Understandably, they cater to a niche market that specifically enjoys the deliciousness of edible coffee. Boom focuses on highlighting why eating caffeine makes for a smoother experience than simply drinking it. A box of 7 bars costs about $24.  GoMacro These are vegan bars made from sustainably sourced ingredients. These healthy energy bars are organic, Kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO, and even soy-free.

Our Blogs

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.
Read More
Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Those suffering from an overactive bladder experience an increased urge to urinate. Such an uncontrollable need significantly compromises one’s quality of life. Issues that arise from this condition may lead the patient to compromise or rearrange their daily routine around their diagnosis. One may even suffer from bladder-related symptoms due to complications from other diseases like diabetes. This article highlights the significant causes as well as management techniques of an overactive bladder in patients: Causes Overactive bladder can result from various reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle choices, age, and underlying health conditions. Here are some of the common causes that lead to the development of this urological condition:  Poor pelvic muscle strength Pelvic muscles provide the lower abdomen with the necessary support. As a person ages, their muscles tend to lose strength. Weak muscles are, thus, a common causative factor that leads to the development of an overactive bladder. Factors like pregnancy and childbirth are also known to weaken the pelvic floor muscles.    Nerve damage This cause of an overactive bladder is quite common as the nerves can sustain damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis and herniated discs. This damage affects the signal transfer among the brain and other body parts, including the bladder.
Read More
Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

A medical alert system consists of life-saving devices that instantly connect the user with emergency help with the push of a button. Such equipment helps seniors live independently and offers peace of mind to their loved ones and caregivers. A good-quality life alert system for seniors has several useful medical features like fall detection, GPS tracking, and professional monitoring. In this article, we’ve listed the best medical alert systems for seniors out there today. Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is known for designing best-in-class life alert devices and systems. Depending on the lifestyle of a senior individual, they can choose between different types of On-The-Go and In-House systems. Almost every Medical Guardian life alert system for seniors features its state-of-the-art fall detection technology, along with other essential features like GPS location tracking, extra neck/wrist buttons, and water resistance. This company’s medical alert products have the longest battery life (up to 168 hours) and furthest signal range (up to 1300 feet) compared to any other product on the market. Medical Guardian also has a highly reliable monitoring center that operates 24/7. Bay Alarm Medical With over 70 years of experience in life alert devices, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most trusted providers in the country.
Read More
Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

The ability of dentures or implants to mimic natural teeth is so impressive that it has changed millions of lives worldwide. These prosthetics are used when natural teeth have significant issues. With a little maintenance, they can be an efficient and long-lasting solution. So, if you are planning to get them yourself, the following article can help you know the factors to consider and the prices of dental implants and dentures. How do dental implants work? Before discussing dental implant prices, it is essential to understand how they work. Dental implants consist of three different pieces that serve distinct functions, as given below: Implant post Also known as the fixture, this small, cylindrical screw acts as an artificial root for the tooth. Abutment This piece connects the implant post and the crown. There are various types of abutments depending on the prosthetic type requiring support. Crown The final piece of the entire prosthetic, the crown rests on the top of the abutment. It can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or ceramics. Porcelain or ceramic crowns look the most natural. Costs of dental implants Depending on one’s needs, there are four types of dental implants. Given below are average costs for the same:
Read More
Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

If your teeth alignment has always made you conscious of your smile, you need to address the issue. Crowded or crooked teeth and crossbites can majorly affect your facial profile and the way you chew your food. The insecurity and complications of a crossbite only grow with age. If you’re contemplating ways to align your teeth, and you want to achieve that without braces, you’ve come to the right place.  This article discusses teeth alignment options that are possible without prominent braces. Invisalign It is one of the most popular ways of teeth alignment without braces. The treatment involves using a set of clear retainer trays made to fit the moving teeth. You will be given a set of new retainer trays every two weeks to make the desired changes. They can be removed when eating, but one needs to ensure they have them on for at least 22 hours in a day. The treatment tenure depends on the severity of the case and takes approximately around 12 to 24 months to align teeth. Advantages They are invisible, so you won’t have to avoid social gatherings or feel awkward They are removable, which makes cleaning the trays and teeth easy  These can be removed when having a meal, which means fewer restrictions when eating Disadvantages Invisalign is a more expensive option  The flexibility of removing trays can elongate the treatment if not worn for prescribed hours  Some may develop a lisp or speak awkwardly with trays Inman Aligner This is another efficient way of teeth alignment without braces.
Read More
Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disease that occurs when the lung tissue is damaged and scarred. The scarring leads to thickened, stiff tissues and makes it difficult for the lungs to work efficiently. Several factors may cause pulmonary fibrosis. However, doctors cannot assess what triggers the condition. While the damage to the lungs is irreversible, there are several remedies that can help. So here are the signs of pulmonary fibrosis and some remedies. The signs of pulmonary fibrosis Before getting into the remedies of the condition, let’s learn about the signs of pulmonary fibrosis. Doing so can ensure proper diagnoses and care at the earliest. The first sign of pulmonary fibrosis is getting out of breath. The symptom occurs when the person exerts themselves through physical exercise. When the condition progresses, the affected individual may find it hard to breathe even with little to no physical activity. Older people who experience shortness of breath often confuse the condition as a sign of aging, failing to diagnose the disease early. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis include: A dry cough. The sudden loss of weight. Fatigue. Pain in the muscles and joints. Clubbing, a condition that results in the widening and rounding at the tips of the fingers or toes.
Read More