Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine. It can cause significant discomfort and stiffness. Understanding AS and its potential impact is a common concern.
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis characterized by persistent inflammation, predominantly impacting the axial skeleton. This includes the spine and the sacroiliac (SI) joints, which connect the spine to the pelvis.
Beyond the spine, AS can also affect other joints throughout the body, such as the hips, shoulders, and ribs. In some instances, the inflammation extends to other organs, including the eyes, lungs, and heart. Over time, chronic inflammation in the spine can lead to new bone formation, fusing vertebrae together in a process known as ankylosis. This fusion can result in a rigid, inflexible spine, sometimes called a “bamboo spine.”
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Life Expectancy
Ankylosing spondylitis is generally not considered fatal, and most individuals can expect a normal or near-normal life expectancy. Advancements in diagnosis and treatment have significantly improved outcomes for people with AS. While AS is a chronic condition, its direct impact on lifespan is often minimal.
Any reduction in life expectancy is typically very small and usually linked to severe, unmanaged complications rather than the disease itself. Early diagnosis and consistent, effective management are important in maintaining quality of life and minimizing disease progression. This proactive approach helps prevent severe complications that could indirectly affect overall health and longevity.
Potential Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis
The chronic inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis can lead to various complications if not properly managed. Cardiovascular involvement is a concern, with individuals having an increased risk of heart disease, including issues like aortitis, arrhythmias, heart attack, or stroke.
Pulmonary complications can arise due to the stiffening of the rib cage and thoracic spine, which can restrict lung expansion and lead to restrictive lung disease. Some individuals may develop apical fibrobullous disease, a scarring of the upper lung lobes, which can increase the risk of infections. Kidney issues are also possible, including secondary renal amyloidosis and IgA nephropathy, which impair kidney function.
Spinal fractures represent another serious complication, as AS can cause bone weakening (osteoporosis) and make the rigid spine more susceptible to breaks, even from minor trauma. These fractures, particularly in the cervical spine, carry a heightened risk of neurological complications.
Living Well with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Proactive steps are important for individuals to manage ankylosing spondylitis and maintain a good quality of life. Seeking an early diagnosis is beneficial, as it allows for timely initiation of appropriate treatment and can help prevent irreversible structural damage. Consistent medical care, including regular visits with a rheumatologist, helps monitor disease activity and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Adherence to prescribed treatment, which may include medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or biological therapies, is important for controlling inflammation and pain. Regular physical therapy and a consistent exercise routine, focusing on low-impact activities and stretching, can help maintain spinal flexibility and improve posture. Lifestyle adjustments such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress contribute positively to overall health and can help minimize complications.