Don't ignore redness, pain, swelling in your joints: It can be Ankylosing Spondylitis

Are you experiencing sudden stiffness in your spine, and pain, redness, swelling in your joints, shoulders, hips, ribs and small joints of the hands and feet? Inflammation might be its cause. You should consult a doctor immediately as it might be Ankylosing spondylitis.

Inflammation in the spine is rare but can be a significant source of pain and disability.  One such type of inflammation is called Ankylosing spondylitis which involves inflammation in the areas where soft tissue attaches to bone. Beginning in the lower back and the joint between the spine and the pelvis, the inflammation causes some of the tissue to erode, that can lead to severe pain and discomfort. In some cases, this inflammation can lead to the formation of a new bone on the spine, causing the spine to fuse in a fixed, immobile position, sometimes creating a forward-leaning posture. 

Diagnosis of inflammatory disorders of the spine often begins with a full physical examination and blood tests that can identify an infection or detect the presence of inflammation. X-rays also are used to visualize the changes in the spine and identify bony growths. Finally, patients with ankylosing spondylitis may undergo genetic testing.

Ankylosing  spondylitis is believed to be genetically inherited, and a majority (nearly 90%) of people suffering from this are born with a gene known as the HLA-B27 gene..

People suffering from this, will experience slow-onset back pain, but it may come and go. This pain usually is more severe at night and is associated with stiffness in the morning.

Ankylosing spondylitis also causes a stiff, stooped posture and the pain, swelling and stiffness may move to other joints and other areas of the body such as the shoulders, hips, ribs, heels and small joints of the hands and feet. The heart, lungs, and eyes may also get affected.

Currently, there is no known cure for Ankylosing spondylitis, but there are treatments and medications available to reduce symptoms and manage the pain. Recent studies show that the new biologic medications can potentially slow or halt the disease progression in some people.