Did You Know? Ankylosing spondylitis affects men more often than women
Males Are Impacted More By the Effects of the Inflammatory Disease and During Early Adolescences
What could be thought of as simple back pain could be signs of something worse, such as Ankylosing – Spondylitis. Men should take extra effort in consulting their medical provider as Ankylosing – Spondylitis affects more men than the woman population. The disease is also more common in Native Americans but can affect any race.
This guide is intended to help inform patients on what Ankylosing – Spondylitis is, the signs and symptoms and suggestions on how to manage living with this disease.
01 | What is Ankylosing - Spondylitis?
Ankylosing – Spondylitis, also known as Rheumatoid Spondylitis, is a type of arthritis that affects the spine but can also affect the hips and shoulders. The disease is categorized as an inflammatory disease, and in some cases as a systemic disease, that can cause the vertebrae to bond; bonding causes the spine to become rigid.
02 | Signs and Symptoms
Ankylosing – Spondylitis signs and symptoms commonly begin between the ages of 17-45, however, the elderly and even young children can be affected. Symptoms some individuals may experience include:
However, the affects vary from patient-to-patient. Generally, and more common symptoms include:
03 | Managing Ankylosing - Spondylitis
There is no cure for Ankylosing – Spondylitis, but there are ways that patients can help manage living with the disease by incorporating the following lifestyle changes:
Ensure to consultant with your medical provider prior to implementing any new activity to your daily routine.
For additional resources and information on Ankylosing – Spondylitis, visit: http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/guide/ankylosing-spondylitis
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/basics/definition/con-20019766
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ankylosingspondylitis.html
