Ankylosing Spondylitis Signs and Symptoms

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease that involves the joints and the spine. Although some people experience symptoms in many parts of the body, the main site of this disorder is the lower back. In ankylosing spondylitis, the spine becomes stiff, and eventually the vertebrae bcome fused together. As well, 25 percent of people who have ankylosing spondylitis experience eye inflammation. We have put together a list of the most common signs and symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis:

stiffness and pain in the lower back that is worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity
difficulty bending the spine
difficulty walking
bent over posture
poor spinal range of motion
loss of appetite
joint pain
fever
fatigue
swollen, painful, inflamed eyes
reduced ability to expand the chest or take a deep breath

Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis:

There are no specific laboratory tests to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis. Doctors will look at x-rays for evidence of inflammation in certain joints and may take certain blood tests to help confirm a diagnosis. Other signs include:

reduced mobility of the spine
inflammatory back pain
pain and stiffness in the morning
reduced ability to inflate the chest

Types of bloodwork that can help confirm findings include tests for anemia, testing for CRP protein, and the absence of antinuclear antibodies.

Books to Help People With Signs and Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis:

2009 Conquering Ankylosing Spondylitis – The Empowered Patient’s Complete Reference – Diagnosis, Treatment Options, Prognosis (Two CD-ROM Set) PM Medical Health News	Ankylosing Spondylitis Michael H. Weisman


Ankylosing Spondylitis: The Facts (The Facts Series) Muhammad Asim Khan	Medifocus Guidebook on: Ankylosing Spondylitis Medifocus.com Inc.

What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Genetic Factors
Klebsiella Infection
Chlamydia and Ureapasma Infections
Mycoplasma Infections

Ankylosing Spondylitis Resources

General Patient Resources

Spondylitis Association of America

Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, medication, educational materials, brochures. Spondylitis patient support, message boards, physician resources.

14827 Ventura Blvd. #222

Sherman Oaks CA 91403

818-981-1616

www.spondylitis.org

Arthritis Foundation

A great place to start your research on ankylosing spondylitis.

www.arthritis.org

United Voices for Ankylosing Spondylitis

UVAS was created to help spread Ankylosing Spondylitis awareness. A place for individuals to share experience & give support to others.

http://www.unitedvas.com/

Ankylosing.org

Ankylosing.org is a website we can go and ask your Ankylosing Spondylitis questions. It is a support group that confirms that you are never alone.

Medical Organizations

Mayo Clinic