See all the articles about this condition
Back pains are quite normal and can be caused my many things. Therefore, diagnosing ankylosing spondylitis can take years. But there are specific characteristics connected to the disease that can help diagnose it.
The process of AS symptoms
Typically a patient will start by noticing pain and stiffness in the lower back and the buttocks, most commonly only on one side at the time. Over a course of a few months this will increase in frequency and intensity. Loss of appetite, mild fever and discomfort are also indicators of early AS.
In general the most common symptoms are back pains, stiffness and fatigue. Over time the pain can become chronic, but can be relieved by exercises and keeping active. The pain can be more intense during the night and in the morning, typically because of the inactivity during sleep.
In severe cases of AS, the spine can start creating new bone in order to repair itself. Unfortunately the new bone will collide with the existing bone and start fusing. This will cause an inflexible, curved forward posture.
Though the symptoms can be severe, there are ways to relieve the pain. There is not yet a cure for ankylosing spondylitis, since the cause has not been found, but there are several treatments available.
Last updated: 12/19/17
