Table of Contents
How long can a person live with ankylosing spondylitis?
Life expectancy for people who have ankylosing spondylitis is the same as that of the general population, except for patients who have the most severe forms of the disease and for those who have complications.
What is a serious complication of ankylosing spondylitis?
Osteoporosis and spinal fractures Osteoporosis is where the bones become weak and brittle. In AS osteoporosis can develop in the spine and increase your risk of fracturing the bones in your backbone. The longer you have the condition, the more this risk increases.
What jobs can I do with ankylosing spondylitis?
Need inspiration? Here are 8 jobs for people with scoliosis, ankylosing spondylitis and other spinal disorders:
- Teacher. Teaching roles often involve a mix of standing and sitting and have time for breaks.
- Self-employed.
- Exercise instructor.
- Sales agent.
- Reseller.
- Mindfulness coach.
- Administrative assistant.
- Project manager.
What are the psychological effects of ankylosing spondylitis?
The pain experienced by those with ankylosing spondylitis has psychological consequences, commonly causing feelings of helplessness, fear, anxiety, and sadness. These are normal human responses to a difficult situation, and it’s okay to feel however you feel.
Can You Live a normal life with ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis may create further havoc in the body by causing fatigue, eye pain, and even heart or lung problems. Despite the complexity and whole-body involvement of AS, you can live well with this disease—it may require some preparation and resiliency, but it can be done by taking it one step and one day at a time.
Is there a cure for ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis has no cure. The earlier you and your doctor detect and diagnose it, the better. Treatment can help prevent worsening symptoms and ease what you’re experiencing. It can also slow the progression of the disease and delay the onset of additional problems.
What kind of doctor should I See for ankylosing spondylitis?
If you have ankylosing spondylitis, it is important to work with a healthcare team that has experience with your form of arthritis. The first step is finding a rheumatologist—a doctor who specializes in diseases of the joints and muscles. Even among rheumatologists, some tend to focus on specific diseases.