Symptoms of Spondylitis

 

Spondylitis, specifically ankylosing spondylitis (AS), is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing pain and stiffness. Its symptoms can vary, but here are the most common ones:

1. Back Pain and Stiffness

Location: Pain usually begins in the lower back and buttocks, often on one side or alternating sides.

Nature of Pain: The pain is often dull, persistent, and worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Morning Stiffness: People often wake up with stiffness that improves with movement and exercise but worsens with rest.

2. Reduced Spinal Flexibility

Loss of Range of Motion: Due to the fusion of the vertebrae (spinal bones), the spine may become less flexible over time, causing a hunched-forward posture.

Difficulty Bending or Twisting: Everyday movements may become challenging.

3. Hip and Shoulder Pain

Pain in Large Joints: Spondylitis can cause pain and discomfort in the hips, shoulders, and other large joints, sometimes affecting the knees and feet as well.

Swelling: Joint swelling may also occur, often worsening after prolonged inactivity.

4. Neck Pain

Some people experience neck pain and stiffness, especially as the disease progresses.

5. Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue: Due to the ongoing inflammation, fatigue is common in people with spondylitis. It may feel like a constant sense of tiredness and low energy.

6. Enthesitis

Inflammation at Tendon and Ligament Attachments: Enthesitis is common in spondylitis, leading to pain where tendons and ligaments attach to bones. Common sites include the Achilles tendon at the heel and the bottom of the foot.

7. Eye Inflammation (Uveitis/Iritis)

Symptoms of Uveitis: About 25-40% of people with AS may experience uveitis, an inflammation of the eye causing redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

8. Restricted Chest Expansion

Difficulty Breathing Deeply: If the joints between the ribs and spine become inflamed, chest expansion can be restricted, making it hard to take deep breaths.

9. Digestive Symptoms

Gut Issues: Some people with AS may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is sometimes associated with AS.

10. Skin and Nail Changes

Psoriasis and Nail Changes: Spondylitis can sometimes be associated with psoriasis, leading to red, scaly patches on the skin and changes in nails (pitting or thickening).

11. Other Rare Complications

Heart and Lung Involvement: In advanced cases, spondylitis can affect the heart (aortitis or aortic valve disease) and lungs, leading to reduced lung capacity or breathing difficulties.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience persistent back pain, stiffness, or other symptoms listed above, especially if they improve with exercise but worsen with rest, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.