FAQs

1. What is ankylosing spondylitis?

   Ankylosing spondylitis is a painful condition in which some of the bones of the spine fuse together. It tends to affect younger people, from teenage years to mid-thirties.

2. Are other joints affected in ankylosing spondylitis, or just the spine?

   The spine and pelvis are usually affected first. The chest wall and neck can also be involved. But it's difficult to say how ankylosing spondylitis will affect you. The condition affects everyone differently.

3. Does ankylosing spondylitis affect other parts of the body?

   Yes. Sometimes the eyes, heart and lungs are affected. These problems can all be treated fairly easily. But if you get any new symptoms you should see your doctor as soon as you can.

4. Can ankylosing spondylitis kill you?

   No. There are some dangerous complications, so it is important to get checked out by your doctor if you suspect anything.

5. How is ankylosing spondylitis diagnosed?

   If your doctor thinks you may have ankylosing spondylitis he or she will look at your posture and spine to see if there is any curving. Your GP may then refer you to a rheumatologist. At hospital you'll probably have x-rays or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of your spine.

6. Is there a cure for ankylosing spondylitis?

   No, there's no cure, but there are good treatments for controlling the symptoms. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used to relieve pain from ankylosing spondylitis, and medications that stop certain chemicals from working in your body can also reduce inflammation and pain in your joints.

7. Is there anything else I can do for the symptoms apart from take medication?

   Exercise is also very important if you have ankylosing spondylitis - you'll probably be referred to a physiotherapist and given a special programme of exercises to help manage your symptoms.

8. Will I need surgery?

   Not usually. Fewer than one in 10 people with ankylosing spondylitis need a hip replacement operation. Sometimes people with ankylosing spondylitis have surgery on their spine, but this is rare.

9. Can I pass ankylosing spondylitis on to my children?

   Yes you can. If you have ankylosing spondylitis there is a 50% chance that you will pass on the gene that is responsible for it to your children. But not everyone who inherits this gene develops ankylosing spondylitis. Other factors are also important, such as their exposure to infections, although no-one is sure what triggers the disease. If you're worried your child might have ankylosing spondylitis it's important that they see a doctor.

10. Will I become disabled?

    Not usually. Most people who have ankylosing spondylitis continue to live independently without any major problems.