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.
Recommended – Test for Heavy Metals and Mineral Imbalances using Hair Tissue Analysis
We suggest getting a hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) to help you determine accurately what your body needs more of in terms of essential trace minerals and needs to eliminate in terms of toxic heavy metals and toxic mineral ratios. Toxic mineral ratios and toxic metal accumulation following long term or acute exposure can contribute greatly to degenerative conditions like ankylosing spondylitis.
Essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium and sodium all have important metabolic functions. However, too little or too much of any of these essential minerals can have an adverse affect on the human body and it’s ability to recover. How can a hair analysis help me achieve better health? If we consider that diet is what we consume and nutrition is what we retain, then we can see that discovering what your body needs when it needs it is a valuable tool in creating health. |
The dangers of exposure to toxic heavy metals such as mercury, lead and aluminum have been well documented over the years. Levels of heavy metals in the body can only be accurately measured using a hair tissue analysis or a chelation challenge test (which can be expensive and have serious side-effects). Blood or urine tests give information about your metal or mineral levels at the time of the test only.
Testing for minerals in the urine measures the minerals that are being excreted from your body – not necessarily what has been absorbed as fuel for your body. So blood and urine tests are like snapshots whereas a hair analysis is the video of your mineral retention. A hair analysis provides a biological profile of the past 2 – 3 months of intracellular activity revealing a unique metabolic world, which cannot be seen through most other tests. The hair mineral analysis gives you or your healthcare professional much-needed information about mineral deficiencies and chemical imbalances in your body, especially if you’re suffering from symptoms of any disease or disorder, including ankylosing spondylitis. For FAQ’s about hair analysis, please click here. For an overview of what is covered in a comprehensive hair analysis report (by Trace Elements, Inc.), please click here. |
To purchase a comprehensive Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (by Trace Elements, Inc.) from Evenbetternow Natural Health Solutions, please click here. |
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?
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Genetic Factors
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Klebsiella Infection
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Chlamydia and Ureapasma Infections
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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
www.mayoclinic.com/health/ankylosing-spondylitis/DS00483