Ankylosing

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (where the spine meets the pelvis). Over time, inflammation can lead to stiffness and fusion of the spinal bones, causing reduced flexibility and a stooped posture. It usually begins in young adults and is more common in men.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis

  • Autoimmune and inflammatory reaction

  • Strong genetic association with HLA-B27 gene

  • Family history of ankylosing spondylitis

  • Abnormal immune response triggered by infections

Risk Factors

  • Age between 15 and 40 years

  • Male gender

  • Positive family history

  • Presence of HLA-B27 gene

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

  • Chronic low back pain and stiffness (especially in the morning)

  • Pain that improves with movement and worsens with rest

  • Buttock or hip pain (sacroiliac joint pain)

  • Reduced spinal flexibility

  • Fatigue

  • Pain in shoulders, hips, or ribs

  • Difficulty in deep breathing (chest expansion reduced)

  • Eye inflammation (uveitis) causing redness and blurred vision

Commonly Affected Areas

  • Lower back and spine

  • Sacroiliac joints

  • Hips and shoulders

  • Chest (rib joints)

  • Eyes (uveitis – associated condition)